A few weeks ago the incredible Ps Clare Jones spoke with Ps Josh and Liv Campbell about tips for getting through lockdown, touching on parenting, anxiety, and the importance of the Word of God in our lives. Here are some of the top takeaways from all the wisdom that she graciously shared with us.
Many of us struggle with anxiety, whether it be about the lockdown that we’re in, or anything else. The key to coping with this anxiety is the Word of God. Reading your Bible daily, and allowing it to permeate in your spirit gives you the tools to overcome fear and anxiety. Declare scriptures over your life; like 2 Timothy 1:7 “for I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power and of love, and of a sound mind.” Because we have promises like this in the Bible, we can surrender the anxiety to Him, and trust that he holds us in His hands. Memorise scriptures like these, so that when you need something to stand on you can stand on the Word of God.
Ps Clare mentioned Psalm 91 in particular. There have been many times in her life where she has called upon the promises God speaks in that scripture. Learn it, and hold it close to your heart. Find rest in the promises it makes, as it says in Isiah 55:11 “…so is my word that goes out from my mouth, it shall not return void.”
Many of us know people that are struggling with anxiety during lockdown that aren’t Christian and don’t have the same tools that we have to cope with. All we can do is show that we are not anxious. Show them that because we believe in Jesus, we have peace. Regardless of what’s happening in the world, that you can find rest in Gods presence freedom from anxiety. Our optimism sow’s hope into others lives. There truly is no greater way to help others than pray for them and be an example of God’s love to them.
Ps Clare also spoke on helping kids cope with their anxiety. It’s important to remind them what the Bible says, first and foremost. Teach kids what the Word of God says, and help them understand it. Tell them that in Philippians 4:6-7 it says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
When they ask questions about the pandemic and the world, answer the exact question that they have asked. This means that for instance; if they asked about why the country is in lockdown again that you would answer them with a basic outline of what happened that caused the lockdown and how we stay inside so that the sick people don’t make other people sick. Be appropriate to age with your answer, giving details that they can understand and handle without confusion. It’s important to not overshare with children, when answering difficult questions. Be careful not to download your own feelings and opinions or provide too much information.
There is no perfect way to get through lockdown. Trying to do things the right way will never be good enough. It’s only by surrendering to God, and trusting His plans for us that we can make our way through this lockdown., Jeremiah 29:11“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”