23 And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. 24 Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. (Acts 16:23-25)
I have lived with some PTSD as a result of Vietnam. God Himself has helped me tremendously in overcoming much of this. My concern for many Americans in our isolation is that some may begin to feel similar effects, at the very least, depression. Isolation can seem like a prison if you do not find a way to get outside several times a day to capture a different view than four walls and a screen.
Might I suggest sitting on the porch; taking a short walk; sitting under a tree . . . notice the wonders of the world which have not changed one little bit because of this struggle we are having. Make a written list of all that you see that stills and calms your mind; notice the beautiful things; hear the birds sing; watch the squirrels playing. Go back through your list and thank God for the pleasure and joy you have received from them.
Another thing which brings depression on others is a seeming loss of identity. When one places their whole worth in the job they hold, and the position or title they have enjoyed, they suddenly do not know who they are any longer when those things are taken away, even temporarily. My friend, your worth, your identity is not to be found in what you do, but in who you are. You are first and most importantly, a creation of God. He created you for Himself in relationship. Jesus, the Son of God, very God Himself, died to save you out of a fallen world, a world of sin. Reach out to Him and accept that wonderful and freeing gift of salvation. Jesus invites: “Come unto Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
If you are already in Christ Jesus, that is, you have a relationship with God; spend more time in the Bible, even more time in prayer speaking with Him. What is great about this gift of intimacy, prayer, is that it can continue throughout the day while you are doing other things. “Pray without ceasing.”
Lastly, if you are a husband, a wife, a parent, or a child take time to thank God for those in this life with you. Ask God to show you how to be extra kind and loving to those who are near you. Be creative in sharing love and laughter together. “Be anxious for nothing.”
Beloved, through the media that is available, reach out to all that you know. Keep the faith! We will get through this together! Pray On!
