Contemporary coping mechanisms
Some homes have developed contemporary and temporary rituals to survive during this lockdown.
- The invisibility shirt
- Lockdown commute
- ¡The holiday pretence
- Reconciliation walk
Biblical injunctions
The above are borne out of the experience of this time. They are all temporary. But how we/you cope under the strain of this lockdown? The Bible has some permanent recommendations for us. This is a time for us to be taught and get closer to God.
1. Lamb to the slaughter parade
Isaiah 53:7 NKJV “He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth.”
2. The L-plate challenge
Hebrews 5:8 NKJV “Though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered.”
3. The chastening factor
Hebrews 12:5-7 NKJV“And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?”
4. Always be a sober and vigilant warning
1 Peter 5:8 - 5:9 NKJV “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.”
5. The fertility challenge
Galatians 5:22-24 NKJV“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such, there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires”