Are the walls closing in on you? The COVID-19 emergency has created the need for important life adjustments including physically separating ourselves from others. We are changing the way we live...and sometimes that’s not convenient nor comfortable. We’re getting squeezed, aren’t we? We know we need to abide by the recommended guidelines for the sake of ourselves and others. As Christ-followers, we are called to be good citizens. (Romans 13:1-2). But, what about this cabin fever? During the coming week, we will be sharing some ideas about how to stay mentally strong and healthy during these different times.
Let’s start with perspective. How we interpret situations has a lot to do with how we emotionally experience them and how we respond to them. There’s no doubt this crisis is very serious and it can become overwhelming. It’s easy to start thinking this will last forever, everything is bad, and we are all alone. Take those thoughts captive! Rather than ask, “How long am I going to be cooped up in this house?” we could wonder, “Looks like I’m at home today - what would God have me do with these hours?” Is there a neighbor to check on, a game to play with my child, a Bible topic to study? Rather than dwell on the limits (we all know they exist!), consider the opportunities and the potential in having your calendar cleared for a while. (Haven’t there been times we dreamed of an empty calendar?) And remember, you are not alone in this situation; people throughout our neighborhoods and our world are dealing with the same struggles. It’s time to reach out and reconnect with them.
As we do our part to stop the spread of the virus, the way we think about the experience is significant. Phil 4:8 tells us how to think. Check it out and see if your perspective and your experience might change for the better.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Phil 4:8 ESV