Tips to help ‘do life’ at this time
As you know, this isn’t business as usual. But, crises are not new -they are a part of human experience through history. In times of uncertainty, there is One who is certain – God, and He will carry us through!
Here are some tips to help you:
Be kind to one another (and yourself)
You are wearing more hats than usual. Even your house is “wearing different hats.” It is functioning as home, school, and for many a place of business. Work out schedules to help you do life at this time. Home life looks anything but usual. The expectations you hold for what happens in your home, don’t fit for this. Rethink your expectations. People feel vulnerable, be kind to one another. Express your emotions in healthy ways -avoid blaming and magnifying problems. Don’t bottle up your feelings or just complain. If things feel like they are getting too much, seek support, take time out, pray, or connect with a close friend or family member, etc.
Communicate
Interaction with your household is vital. Check in and see how each other are doing, e.g. “hey, I’d like to hear how you are doing?”
What to do when you feel helpless
Remind yourself of how you handled tough times in your life.
Ask yourself:
What things helped you then?
What things can you try that might help you at this time?
Think of a good problem solver and ask yourself, what would they do in this situation?
Is there something you are doing that makes you feel worse? If so, what is it? Is could be what you are reading, watching, or something else that holds your focus. And what helpful behaviour can you use to replace the unhelpful behaviour?
A weapon against fear:
It is normal at this time to have concerns. But when fear takes hold, it takes our eyes off God, it robs us, stops us in our tracks, takes our courage, etc…When we worry, we feel powerless. At this time remember God has all power, He is in control! What is a crisis for humans is not a crisis for God, and this will not last forever…it will end. For now, ask God to give you strength to get through and ask for His divine intervention. He cares about you. If you feel fearful, acknowledge your emotions, bring them to God and ask Him to minister to you. He is with you and will comfort you. Remembering God’s faithfulness is one of the greatest weapons against fear. Read His word; proclaim it over your situation! Think about how God has come through for you in your life…He is always faithful and trustworthy.
And stay connected to God, family and people in your world!