Preparing for the “New Normal”
For many of us, COVID-19 has rocked our world, forcing us to make significant changes to the way we “do life.” We want our “normal” to return. Experts across the country are telling us that “normal” has passed. We should expect a “new normal.”
Like you, I can speculate about the “new normal”, but no one really knows for certain—except God. He knows what lies ahead and can help you get ready for it.
Instead of allowing worry to stress you out about the future, God’s Word provides principles to guide us.
• Pray. Ask the Lord for guidance and wisdom. James 1:5 (ESV) tells us this: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
• Plan. Make a list and put items in some kind of priority order. Studies have repeatedly shown that people who make lists actually get more done throughout their lifetime. In Luke 14:28 (ESV), Jesus reminds us about planning: “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”
• Commit. Give your plans to the Lord and He will help you. He understands you, your schedule, and your circumstances. One promise I like to claim is one from Proverbs 16:3 (NIV): “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”
• Act. My tendency is to wait for the perfect time to get something done. More and more, I’m learning not to wait for that perfect time, mainly because it never comes. Over the last few months especially I’ve been jumping in and knocking out tasks. At the end of most days, I can look back and feel a sense of accomplishment along with knowing that the Lord has helped me. Consider Psalm 90:17 (ESV): “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!”
Please know that you don’t have to do the “new normal” alone. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)