A PANDEMIC PRAISE!

‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name like the names of the greatest men on earth. ~1 Chronicles 17:7-8

Who would have thought our 2020 would be centered around this perfect storm known as "pandemic". Just the thought of COVID-19 and its potential consequences prick at the very heart of our communities, our churches, our families, our children.

Pandemic is a powerful word. It's a lesson in humility because by its very nature, it is out of our control.

But there is something we can control. We can harness the power of the word itself and use it for God's glory. We can reshape our mindset to evoke God's favor rather than live in frustration.

Psalms 18 tells us that "life and death are in the power of the tongue". That means how you use your words matter. Use yours to make God and his goodness go viral.

It's time for a pandemic praise!

Sounds easy but, given the presence of pain we encounter daily, how can we know it's okay to be happy?

Is it alright to celebrate the shifts?

Here are three ways to know it's time to praise Him anyhow:

#1 - It's okay to praise God because there's a purpose for your pivot!

King David was frustrated at the fact that he had a palace, but God didn't have a home and so he decided to build God's temple. He had good intentions but God would not allow David's destiny, his legacy to be confined by brick and mortar. By telling David,"no", God elevated him to a level where unlike a building, his kingdom and his relationship with the King of Kings would be established forever.

‘I declare to you that the Lord will build a house for you: When your days are over and you go to be with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, one of your own sons, and I will establish his kingdom. ~1 Chronicles 17:10c-11

Did God change your plans this year? Are there eternal consequences for His decision?

Seek out the reason for your pivot. You may have something new to celebrate.

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