Here we are. 2020 is half over and some feel as if they haven’t lived much of it. One social media post lamented a most wasted purchase was a 2020 planner. It has been an unsettling few months.
Children completed school at home; graduations didn’t happen or were in shifts of limited number; weddings were postponed; and grievers didn’t receive hugs or have funerals. Isolation and social distancing affected relationships. Some people gained weight from the availability of snacks at home and nowhere to go. Turmoil in our country has left us unsettled, questioning, and hopefully, praying.
So as has been my practice, I walked in my neighborhood this morning. Aside from an occasional “Good Morning” to a neighbor, exchanging a few words about the weather, and cautiously adjusting my gait to uneven pavement, I prayed, talked to myself, and reflected on “unsettled”.
I have an unsettled travel insurance claim for a trip that didn’t happen in March. I was unsettled when my air conditioner failed, and I lived in a 90-degree house for several days. Then once repaired, it failed again, and required another repair. My house was unsettled as I dealt with ceiling damage in that second repair. It’s unsettling to go to a restaurant and wonder about social distancing or servers wearing (or not wearing) masks and gloves. Those minor temporal issues -inconveniences- pale in comparison to an unsettled spirit.
I reflected…
About the faith expressed when my daughters as preschoolers in Sunday school, sang about building on firm solid rock versus unsettling sand.
On scripture that encourages me when life falls apart:
He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure. Isaiah 33:6 NIV
On my mind: There are many voices shouting opinions, speculation, facts. Where do I land? My prayer is let God choose the way I think (Romans 12: 1-2) and for me to focus on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Phil. 4:8 NIV)
On peace that is mine when my reflection is rightly placed.
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. (Isaiah 26:3 NIV)
On hope: ‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I hope in Him!’” (Lamentations 3:24 NASB) Portions are sufficient; He is enough.
Once I returned home, and poured a glass of ice water, I continued to reflect, but it’s your turn.
What truth guides you to a firm foundation in your unsettled places?
Beautiful!! Thank you!
Glad it encouraged you, Micki. Marilyn
I found some hope I MY unsettled feelings that I have. Thank you Marilyn.
Thank you Judy. I find hope as wishful thinking is a temporary lift, but hope-as God confidence remains. Marilyn
Wonderful question that we each need to reflect upon Ms. Marilyn. I’ve been doing some of that internal soul-searching myself this week; asking God’s guidance over my thoughts and feelings. I keep returning to Psalm 105:4. I fear the day is coming nigh that we must choose between being a Christian or being an American. For me, that choice was made long ago. I pray God’s help that I do not waiver. I pray also His return.
J.D–One of my favorites to lean into: “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.” Psalm 105:4 (NIV) We can’t look at two places at the same time. Thanks for sharing, Marilyn
“Unsettled” is an accurate description of today’s world. I try to remember that for Christians, this world is not our home. Turning to verses like these you listed and lifting each concern to God helps me keep my eyes on Him when the unsettled aspects of life seem to enlarge. What a perfect post to help us, Marilyn!
You’re welcome Jeannie. Keeping our eyes and hope fixed in the right place is one of the keys to daily peace.Thanks for taking the time to respond. Marilyn
“Unsettled” is certainly the word for the day, or rather for the year. How true that we must remember where our hope comes from.
I love your statement: “My prayer is let God choose the way I think (Romans 12: 1-2).”
I’m with you on that.
It’s easy to get discouraged these days and posts like yours can help many people.
Thank you for the encouraging post.
You’re welcome Connie. Thank you for sharing. Marilyn
A firm foundation is so important to us as Christians. You can see what not having one does to individuals and families.
I have been thinking about this a lot, too. In my hikes along the river I see trees which have lost their soil foundation from soil erosion from the river. Eventually, the tree falls–just as we will. Thanks, Marilyn. Great post.
A weak or no foundation is flimsy and will fall, just as you said. Thank you for adding a vivid illustration to remind us, Stephanie.
Marilyn
These are very unsettling times… dominated by a plethora of information from unsure sources. But, we can be sure about God. We can trust Him.
“Unsettled” is a fitting adjective for 2020 for me as well. Since June, I’ve been able to walk in the mornings and, like you, I spend a lot of that quiet time in reflection. (I write about it in my blog this week). Being outside in God’s awesome Creation fosters my communication with Him. I’ve needed that assurance of His love and protection after my husband’s long illness. Thank you for this inspiring message.