As we are in the middle of a wild ride, and uncertain end, it is easy to become fearful, anxious, morbid, fatalistic, and angry, to pick a few feelings out of the thin air.  How do we handle ourselves when it feels like the proverbial rug is being pulled out from under us?  Here are a few thoughts I have been integrating into my own life, which might offer some solace in the midst of current or future stress.

First, I am focusing on hope.  I am convinced that no matter how bad things get, there is always hope.  Hope seems to be in my DNA, even though at times my family would say I am the worrier.  I suppose I do worry, but worrying helps me think strategically.  From there, I actually get hopeful, and begin working my strategy.

 Second, I keep thinking about the daily present.  Sure, there are storm clouds ahead, but hey!  The sun comes out after the rain!  Dawn comes after the dark!  Tomorrow, will show up, just as it did yesterday.

 Third, I keep my mouth open.  By this I mean, I talk about my concerns, hopes, fears, possibilities.  I share with friends and family.  I ask for prayer.  I pray for others about the same things.  And then, I feel like we are all in the same boat.

 Fourth, I acknowledge Jesus is here with me.  Jesus will be walking beside me, and will stick with me through whatever happens.  Some of what may happen, will be because of my stupid mistakes, misguided forecasting, or whatever else.  However, He will work with all that, and only He knows the outcome.  I find that exhilarating!

 Fifth, I know that I will have times of anxiety, times of feeling down.  So, I welcome them because I know that my feelings will circle around to hope and joy again, though I don’t necessarily know when.  And, hopefully, my actions will result in God being exalted.

 Five is enough.  It is the same number of fingers we have on one hand.  Review this each day by looking at your hand.  We are in the midst of a great time of difficulty.  And yet, we know our Christian history is full of these periods.  Take heart.  As with the sparrow, His eye is on you!