When I am feeling overwhelmed, Lord, I will pray . . .
At a Faith and Money workshop years ago I learned the importance of praying the newspaper. That idea resonated with me, and as I followed that practice over the years I found that it helped me cope with those things beyond my control and calmed my fears.
As the virus swirls around us, I am praying . . .
This pandemic is affecting me in unexpected and unappreciated ways, Lord, and I need your help coping with the negative emotions that wash over me when that happens.
I need a dose of Tolerance for myself when I fritter away my time instead of doing something productive. Tell me loud and clearly, Lord, that I can’t solve all the world’s problems by spending every waking minute working and I don’t have to try just because I’m always home sheltered in place.
Lord, I cannot understand the mindset of people who think the virus is a hoax and those who will not wear a mask to protect others. Their unwillingness to accept that the virus is killing their neighbors and mine makes me so angry I struggle to retain control of my emotions. Open their eyes to reality Lord and my heart to Understanding their denials.
Money is a big question in my life right now, Lord. I need to know how much I can give away when I don’t know what impact the virus will have on my income tomorrow and next year. I need Courage to be the generous person I want to be, to help those who are hungry and scared of becoming homeless.
I don’t shop for groceries often, Lord, and I need Patience when stocks are low and the ingredients for meals I’ve planned are non-existent. Remind me to be flexible when I feel that frustration, Lord, and whisper in my ear to be grateful for the sacrifices of those who harvest, and process and sell the food I buy.
Guide my living and my prayers, Lord, and help me be sensitive to the needs of others throughout this pandemic.
Are you feeling mixed emotions these days too?
Blessings on your efforts to pray when you’re feeling overwhelmed,
Judy Osgood
August 3, 2020