The news around us is ever changing, both locally and around the world. Tina Lias, from our Online campus, lives across the pond sent us this blog post. We found it encouraging and wanted to share it with you too.
“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” Proverbs 19:21
It is so easy to be scared and worry when the world seems to be turning upside down. It can be challenging not knowing what’s happening next, or at least have a vague idea. Corona virus panic is making things changing so fast and we don’t know what today is going to bring, let alone tomorrow.
I love planning things ahead and it is very frustrating not to be able to do that. I feel so out of control and that scares me. But the truth is, we are never really in control. Sometimes it may feel like we are, but we’re not. Good news for us, God is! He knows what is happening, nothing comes as a surprise to Him. Our God is perfect. He is almighty. If He’s in control, what do we have to be afraid of?
Philippians 4:6 says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
How do we put that into practice? How do we let go of anxiety and fear? To be honest, I find it very hard. It doesn’t come natural to me not to be anxious. I have always been a worrier. It’s not easy to change that. And I can’t do it on my own. But I can do it with His help and a group of Christians who will encourage me, offer love and support and pray with me and for me. 
What a blessing that we have so many online groups and ways to connect with people! We don’t have to be in the same room, not even in the same country to encourage one another. How awesome is that? For me, being connected to others on a daily basis makes a huge difference. I just love online groups where we can share our thoughts and fears. When you encourage someone else, you can’t help but encourage yourself as well. And we all need that.
I love James 5:16 – “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”