But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly awaiting for Him to return as our Savior. He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like His own, using the same power with which He will bring everything under His control. Philippians 3:20-21 (NLT).
God’s Part / Our Part
We are kept in God’s love and His kingdom of light, citizens forever in His sight. Entering His healing, the shadow of His wing; it is with joy that we can sing. Decidedly we walk in His way. Our God is omnipresent, with us to stay. So that moment by moment, are fears are allayed.
As citizens of heaven, we move from death into marvelous life; and in transcendent peace, we move from strife. Loyal is God’s family and His kingdom. Called to integrity in all things a mainstay. Called to grow in knowledge and in wisdom. Holy is the Word. The Trinity is true, and is calling us to pray.
In this time of collectively reversing our life process, we have the choice of finding value in the part we can play; lest we become heavy laden. The reverse of what most in our society and culture do, has now become a focus: on home, more than our jobs. While the impetus for this mandatory focus is challenging, and in some instances crushing, if we know the Savior; then we know the Source of all good things. And while social distancing is a necessary action, it is critical to remember that this is an isolated point in time.
I don’t know about you, but I feel a fight to normalcy right now; because we are designed to survive, we acclimate to situations. So, if we don’t remain aware, social distancing can become the norm. What starts out as a protective measure, becomes a way of life if we aren’t mindful. As a citizen of heaven, my heart is to remain true to the God I love, and hold onto Him and His Word. One way this is accomplished for me, is to read, meditate, and study the Bible. As I spend time with the Lord and His Word, it is like wearing corrective lenses. His perspective becomes my perspective. The lens in which I view life.
As we navigate uncharted territory (for us), let’s put on the corrective lenses of love, and share the Creator’s love with those around us; especially our kids. Let’s take time to talk with them about why school is cancelled, and why Mom, Dad, or whomever their guardian is, isn’t working, or working less. This can be incredibly frightening for children to have their schedule in such upheaval. We can assure them that while this can feel scary, the reason life is so different right now is because it’s the best way we know to keep as many people well as possible. That God is with us always, His Word tells us: be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you and I will never abandon you. Hebrews 13:5b (NET). This is vital truth to focus on when life feels out of control, like balance is unattainable.
Love, hope, faith, and belief in our heavenly Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, will anchor us. I pray that we as citizens of heaven, will press in with prayer and thanksgiving to the One who is greater than anything this life brings our way. That we will take the opportunity to share gratitude for His love that destroys fear. And that we will search His Word for promises of peace, protection, health, and provision; and keep these promises before our eyes. And praise Him “knowing He will bring everything under His control.”
Blessings,
Jacquie ♥
Amen!
Branette
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Blessings, Branette! ♥
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Good Morning, I have thought a lot about what happens when our restrictions are lifted. The extroverts & the huggers will rejoice. But the introverts may decide that they like social distancing & decide not to rejoin the craziness of normal society.
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True. My sense is that for those who are true introverts, their tendency is to live this way regardless. I pray they experience a holy ease, as they learn to trust in our loving Father. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Barb ♥
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Amen
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Thanks Jacquie. This is an encouraging post. I can see our God working in many ways through this time crisis. He is bringing good out of the bad. Prayer is our lifeline. The kids do need prayer. My cousin pointed out recently that this time is hard for high school seniors who are missing out on their senior year activities. May we all continue to look to Jesus for comfort and direction. Blessings! 💛
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Amen, Dawn. Prayer truly is our lifeline. My grandson is in his sophomore year, and is finding this time seriously difficult. He like so many, is very social. I pray our youth will learn to be still and know that He is God. To taste and see that He is good. To press in and find depth in their relationship with Him, and to come to salvation if they don’t. Blessings, sweet friend ♥
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Awww I’m sorry he’s having a difficult time. I’m praying for him and the others kids. I’m not sure if you follow this blog but I thought of you when I read this post discussing prayer for children.
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You’re so thoughtful, Dawn. Thank you! I will check it out. I just read an encouraging post this morning sharing about God as our Artist. A post I think we should all read: https://encouragingword.life/2020/03/23/the-lord-is-an-artist/
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Thank you for sharing! That was a lovely post and so very true. He is the Master Artist.
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♥♥
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A lovely post – I loved: “We are kept in God’s love and His kingdom of light, citizens forever in His sight. Entering His healing, the shadow of His wing; it is with joy that we can sing.” A loving and powerful “image.”
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A wonderful and very encouraging post. May we wear His corrective lens and look at things from His perspective. May we trust and depend on Him like never before at this time and I pray that those who are yet to call Him Lord will look to Him at this time.
My son is 15 is he is very social and is definitely missing getting together with his church youth group and other things. But he does understand the necessity and severity of the situation – Manu.
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Amen, Manu! I believe God is and has been working in and through this situation. I pray that our youth like your son, and my grandson, will grow in wisdom, love, and godliness as they press into the Lord. That they will be a godly influence. God bless you and your family with peace, health, and provision.
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Thank you Jacquie.
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Your post was a great comfort to all of us who have read it. Yes, may we put on HIS “corrective lenses” every single day of our lives! Stay safe and healthy friend! My GOD hold you and yours in HIS capable HANDS!
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God bless you and your family, Maxine, and thank you for your encouragement. You are a blessing 💕
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To my heart as well Jacquie! Stay safe and stay well dear one.
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💜
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Excellent poem! Thanks for sharing these words of comfort sister Jacquie!
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Thank you, sister Yonka. I love that nothing is too difficult for our loving God. He always gives us what we need when we need it.
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Amen!
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Hi, Jacquie.
I’ve nominated you for the Mystery Blogger Award. Check it out here on my blog if you’re interested in accepting: https://saralivingfree.com/2020/03/24/why-mystery-blogger-award/
Take care.
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Thank you so much, Sarah. And Congratulations! 💕
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Thank you for sharing, Soul-Sails 💕
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I really hope social distancing WON’T become the next norm as this is not what the Lord wants from us. But this coronavirus out break too shall pass — just like the many challenges we had overcome because of our trust in His love and faithfulness as our Father and God.
May you and your family be safe under the Lord’s protective shield in this time of crisis. God bless, Jacquie!
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Tina, I am praying that it won’t become the norm. One thing I think we’re seeing is that families are reconnecting, and people are reaching out in relationship albeit virtual, but remembering the value of the people in their lives. I pray this not only continues, but the lessons from this time are not forgotten.
May the benefits and blessings of Psalm 91, remain with you and your family ♥
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Amen! God is speaking through your comforting words and selections of Scripture. God’s peace Jacquie to you and your loved ones.
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Thank you so much, I receive your kind words with gratitude ♥♥
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