Caring for Your Spirit
by Melissa Schaser, Pastor of Congregational Care
April 30, 2020
What has your day-to-day life looked like over the past months? This coronavirus season has altered our regular rhythms, including those that encouraged our spiritual health. Yet now more than ever it is vital that we attend to our spiritual health and find ways to connect ourselves with God. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Be honest with God. Sometimes it can be tempting to only bring our positive emotions before God in an effort to not bother Him with what we’re really going through. But God can handle our anger, pain, and heartbreak. Psalm 145:18 tells us that “The Lord is near to all who call on Him.” Call on Him with your full self, the good stuff and the hard stuff. He will listen.
- Read Scripture. This is more natural for some of us than others. If you need an easy on-ramp, I encourage you to start at the beginning of the Gospel of Mark and center yourself on the life of Jesus. Psalm 119:105 tells us that “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Let Scripture guide your mind and spirit in this season.
- Find fellowship. Virtual fellowship is still fellowship. Matthew 18:20 tells us that “where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am among them.” Even on our computers, phones, and tablets, we have the opportunity to gather, share our joys and concerns, and pray together. If you are wondering how to connect, consider joining one of our CPC small groups or Bible studies.
- Spend time with Jesus. Jesus doesn’t have to social-distance; He can meet us right in our homes, bringing us His compassion and love. Find time each day to set apart and spend time with Him in prayer. Lamentations 3:22-23 tells us, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Each day we have the opportunity to center ourselves in the mercy and love of God.
Want to connect with a pastor?
We’d love to be a source of encouragement and have the opportunity to pray with you. Click here or email Pastor Melissa at melissas@cpconline.org.
Looking for resources?
Visit our Care Resources page for practical ways to care for yourself during this season.
Desire to pray for our community?
Here are prayer prompts to guide you:
For those who are lonely and isolated:
O God who is with us, we pray for the lonely. We pray that your presence would be as real and close to them as their breath.
For those who are in need:
O God of strength, we pray for those who are struggling and lack resources. We ask you to meet their needs and provide a way forward.
For those who are overwhelmed: O God who holds us, we pray for those who are overwhelmed and disorientated in this time of uncertainty. May they rest in the palm of your hand and receive comfort and wisdom.
Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.