Bible verses for lockdown
The continued uncertainty we’ve faced throughout the pandemic is a daunting challenge for everyone. In Victoria we’re currently in lockdown, the varied emotional and financial burdens of which are uncountable. However you may find yourself impacted at this time, I pray you are able to lean on something strong and unchanging. In the wake of global upheaval and uncertainty for the future, I feel blessed to be in the position to find comfort in my faith. Regardless of where you place your faith, I believe that everyone can benefit from putting your priorities, and the things that matter most to you in life, into the forefront of your mind to help alleviate everyday anxieties during the era of self isolation.
These are five verses I’ve found comfort in during this time, I hope they can bring you some relief.
“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17, NIV)
It’s easy for us to feel trapped right now. Whether you are literally trapped, confined to your home during lockdown, or feeling trapped in your life, held at a standstill hoping the world returns to some semblance of normality; there is little use longing mournfully for life to go back to normal. The unfortunate reality is that the world is forever changed by events such as these. True freedom exists only in God’s glory. By putting God first, we can be free from the anxieties that hold us back.
“You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light” (Psalm 18:28, NIV)
When walking through life, we’ve all encountered patches of darkness. There have always been stumbling blocks in our path, complicating our lives. When we put our faith in God and turn to Him when we find ourselves plunged into the darkness, God provides a guiding light to help lead us out again.
“I have made you and I will carry you: I will sustain you and I will rescue you” (Isaiah 46:4, NIV)
Remembering that God will never give up on humans and on the Earth can be a great comfort during worldwide unrest. God has future plans for the earth. No matter how bad things get, if you have faith in God, have faith also in the fact that he will never abandon us.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, NIV)
I realise that telling people not to be afraid during a global health crisis is like asking a dog not to chase a ball you’ve thrown for it. It completely goes against our nature. These are undeniably scary times. But allowing ourselves to be driven by fear in any high stress situation isn’t helpful to us or anyone else. Find courage in the knowledge that God is with us.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5, NIV)
God has perspective over what is to come. When things don’t seem to be going our way, or we feel frustrated with how life is panning out, it’s important to remember things will happen in God’s time, not our time. Have faith that God knows what’s best for us.
If you’re feeling afraid, anxious, or negative during this time, know that your feelings are valid. And while we venture deeper into unchartered and uncertain territory, find comfort in your faith and the plans God has made for us. The final verse I’ve leaned on throughout this year, that I believe summarises all the others perfectly, is this:
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18, NIV)