When midnight rolled around on January 1, 2020, I was wondering what the new decade would bring. I remember thinking 2020 might be a tough year for our nation with so much divide because it was an election year.

Boy, did I underestimate what was really going to unfold in the new year. First, the corona virus started infecting and killing Americans, shut our businesses down, tanked our economy, and confined us to our homes. Then, with the killing of George Floyd, our nation erupted with chaos and hatred. 80 some odd days later, still there is much civil unrest. All the mudslinging over the election coming in November is overwhelming. Brother against brother, neighbor against neighbor. Next, I see on the news last night that two hurricanes are likely to hit the gulf of Mexico in a perfect storm type situation next week. Flooding, wildfires, murder hornets. Never in my lifetime has there been such a need for prayer, and such a need for hope in our nation and our world.

So what are we going to do? Hide in our homes and isolate ourselves by sticking our heads in the sand, like it will all go away? Sinking deeper into depression? Are we going to scream at the darkness, hoping that will work? Based on what’s going on on social media, screaming sure doesn’t help. It just contributes to the darkness. And, if you think breathing is hard in a mask, try breathing with your head in the sand.

I heard someone say the other day, “I’ve quit looking for the signs of the times. I’m listening for the trumpet to sound.” You know that would be great if Jesus came back and got those of us who are ready to go. But what about those that aren’t?

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. … as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. 2 Peter 3:9

He has work for us to do, and He wants Jesus to take as many people as possible to Heaven with Him when He returns. He wants us to reach as many people as possible for Him while there is still time.

Here are positive things you can do to make a difference in 2020, to not only survive, but to thrive:

1. Be The Light.

“When it’s dark, you don’t scream at the darkness, you turn on the light.” – Gary Hamrick, Cornerstone Chapel, Leesburg, VA

How are we showing the love of Christ during these dark days? Have we told anyone lately about how the Light of the World pierces the darkness?

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

Pierce the darkness… Be the light…

Go Light Your World – Kathy Troccoli https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVqR6kTu8lE

2. Be The Hands and Feet of Jesus.

Send a card, deliver a meal (even if it’s on the porch), pick up your phone and call someone. People need a touch from Jesus right now. Let Him use you to be that touch. When I help someone else, I always end up being the one who gets the greatest blessing from it. Picking up the phone doesn’t cost you any more than you’re already paying, but the rewards in Heaven are eternal, and the blessing you get back is priceless.

3. Pray.

There is a group of Americans who have organized a 1-minute daily nationwide prayer initiative. Every night at 9:00 pm EDT, they ask that you pray for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, our government leaders, and a return to a Godly nation.  Set an alarm and stop what you’re doing to pray for one minute at 9:00 pm. Can you imagine the power of that prayer if thousands are praying it at the same time for that one minute.

In addition to praying for our nation, we need to pray for our communities, and specifically for those who are hurting because of health, emotional and financial problems.

4. Count Your Blessings.

Even in the midst of all that has gone on this year, there are still blessings in each of our lives to count. It’s time to pull our heads out of the sand and look around. There is still so much good in our lives. There are always others worse off. Despite all, we still live in the greatest nation on earth. Did you wake up this morning? Some people didn’t. Things we can be thankful for, if we have them, are our families, our jobs, our friends, our church families, our health, just to name a few. Grab a thankful journal, and start writing in it every day. It is amazing how gratitude can change your attitude, and give you hope for another day.

5. Read Your Bible.

The Bible is full of promises like “He will never leave us nor forsake us.” (Deuteronomy 31:8) “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” (Isaiah 40:29) “God is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works.” (Psalm 145:9)  The Word of God is powerful, living and active. Let it speak to You. Let God speak to You in Your time of need and searching. He is found there on the pages. He is hope for the hopeless, and help for the helpless.

 6. Praise and Worship God.

We need the fellowship of Christian brothers and sisters. Go to church, whatever that means for you right now. In person, spread out and wearing a mask. Talking to your computer screen and sharing in a zoom meeting. Or watching your Pastor on television. Sitting under a shade tree far enough to have to shout to each other. Experience worship. I promise you will feel lifted up and encouraged. 

When I find myself sinking into a pit of despair, I turn on Praise music. Nothing lifts me quicker when I am down. I’ve been known to crank up Mary Mary’s “Take My Shackles Off My Feet So I Can Dance” until I rattle the rafters in my warehouse while I am working. I know I look funny there, dancing and singing around. Hopefully, I amuse my Father. I know it sure makes me feel good all the way to my toes. Give it a try.

Turn your worry into worship, and God will turn your battles into blessings. Unknown

Dear Lord: Thank You that You are with us no matter what we go through. You are Who You say You are. You never change. When things are too hard for us, we can surrender it all to You. You hold us safely in Your hands. Please bring revival and repentance in our country, and heal and restore us to a Godly nation. Touch the sick and the hurting and those with financial needs, and bring them health and peace and provision. In 2020, You are revealing man’s need for You. Oh, God, how we need You for this hour, and for every hour! Please guide us with Your love and grace, and may Your perfect will be accomplished for us and through us in 2020. Amen

Thank you for reading and sharing my blogpost today. Please subscribe to my blog and encourage your friends to subscribe as well at www.sharonhawkins.net.

May God guide you and your family during this turbulent year, and hold you close. All you could ever need, you can find in Him.