This last year and a half has been challenging to say the least. And there’s no end in sight. The world is upside down, emotions are high, and uncertainty is the only thing we can expect.

I know I’m not the only one who gets anxious reading the latest headlines, so I thought a shift of focus might be good for us today.

There is always something to be thankful for. No matter what is thrown at us; even when life is scary and things don’t make sense, we can find joy in the blessings we do have. It takes intentionality, especially when the world is telling us to freak out and hide in our basements.

Here are some things in which we can find peace, comfort, and enjoyment. Right now.

1. Faith

Not just faith in any God, but in the only one who proved it by rising from the dead. The Alpha and Omega who is bigger than the Delta. He is I AM even when we are not. Current events don’t take him by surprise. He has protected his people through floods and captivity, wars, fiery furnaces, lions’ dens, and calamity of every kind. And even if he doesn’t…he is still good. He is still on the throne. What we will never get through our heads is this isn’t it. Heaven is waiting and death can’t hold us. We were made for such a time as this. Remind yourself of this daily by being in his Word and praying through every worry as it comes to mind. Armor up, friends.

2. Family.

I’m going to go ahead and count friends who are basically family in this category, too. In a time where it’s easy to be divided, isolated, and inward-focused, we need each other more than ever. When it comes time to count our blessings, people rank highest after our relationship with God. We were not meant to do life alone, and it means the world to have people to love who love you back. Visualize the face of each person God has blessed you with. Make sure you’re reaching out and staying connected. In person, if possible. Lean in.

3. Fellowship

Fellowship. Christian Fellowship. This is a beautiful marriage of faith and family. Being in community with people who will pray for you, help meet whatever needs they can, and point you back to Jesus when things look dark is crucial. The church is precious to the Lord and it should be to us as well. Gather. Often. Listen to the preaching of the Word. Eat good food. Know and be known. This is God’s good plan for his people. Be a place others can land. Keep the lamps burning. He’s coming soon.

4. Food.

If you’re not going to bed hungry at night, you are blessed. If you have enough to share with people who are struggling, do so.

5. Freedom

There’s a lot of bad mamajamas in this world. Just look at Afghanistan right now. We are blessed beyond measure to live in America, at least for now. The thing is, freedom isn’t free. So thank God you have the constitutional right to stand up and speak out against tyranny and evil. Thank God you have the freedom to worship him without fear of persecution and death. We take it for granted, but Christians are literally being murdered for their faith by terrorist groups right now. Pray for them, and thank God for the safety we have always enjoyed.

Ok, my next two words were “Filipinos” and “fshelter”, so I think we’re done here.

Love you guys. Keep your eyes on him.