Pandemic Inspiration by Elder Martha Shine

2 Timothy 1:7

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through him who strengthens me”

Greetings CCIW Disciples Women,

I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Park Manor Christian Church is surviving the Pandemic with only a few members getting the virus. We are praying for all the CCIW Disciples Women, families, and churches to be protected from the COVID-19 Pandemic.

I write you a few words of inspiration to encourage you and lift you up during this pandemic. These two scriptures motivate me every day to get up and go. They are like my hot black coffee, wheat toast, and peanut butter breakfast. Well, I know we need motivation when we Eat, Pray, Love in the same space 24/7. I mean “Home Sweet Home”. If your home has turned into your improvised space (home, office, school, gym, movie theater and church) you are not alone. In fact, we are right there with you when we need to be inspired to “Stay Home” or “Shelter in Place”

Daily is when I turn to 2 Timothy 1:7 for spiritual inspiration. “For God… gave us a spirit of power, of love and of self- discipline” (NIV). Spiritual inspiration is something we all need during this Pandemic, to help us search for meaning, purpose and transcendence (existence or experience beyond the normal or physical level) in life. Let us look at the transcendence of Mother Teresa now known as Saint Teresa, she is widely revered around the world as an ultimate source of inspiration for spiritual guidance and wisdom. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, hope, and charity.

Although these are heavy thoughts, let us lighten things up by viewing our lives through our superpower of love. The power of Love is like a prayer that transcend the way we experience our lives. I am challenged everyday by the media prognosticators (predictors, diviners, prophets), the rising COVID-1 death numbers, the scare of losing a cherished loved one, or even taking a COVID-19 test. Life is not always simple, I speak out loud 2 Timothy 1:7,”For God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power, of love and self-discipline”(NIV) and God’s power and love inspire self-discipline In me to move forward.

“I feel bold not challenged.” I feel the ability to control my feelings and overcome my weaknesses. I feel the ability to pursue what I thinks is right despite temptations to abandon my willpower and self-discipline. I feel that “ I can do all things through him who strengthens me”. Philippians 4:13

God is able, to provide us a safe space for health, healing, and hope. Blessings.