Such a strange phrase… and yet it is universally used though rarely defined. Often the phrase is used to distinguish a major event that changes the course of (fill in the blank). It is so expansive as to not provide any understanding, except that what was probably will never be again. So, what does that mean?
Undoubtedly, the first reaction to this ‘condition’ is to focus on how this will affect ME! Is the ‘new normal’ something that is wanted, needed, expected, hoped for, feared? Regardless, what will this mean for me? Personal ‘new’ expectations on oneself, challenges, or threats is not unusual unless the reaction is unknown or negative and/or fearful. Anxiety and new rarely are good mates. Often much time is wasted on denying or fighting against this ‘new’ rather than understanding and proactively responding. Obviously, ‘the new normal’ means CHANGE. And typically… this is not a change we have any influence over… it is an ‘is’.
So, what are our assets in these times? What can and should we be and do? My suggestion – turn to scripture to bring peace and hope to face these times.
Jeremiah 29:11 “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”Joshua 1:9 “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.”
Proverbs 3: 5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Isaiah 43:19 “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
Philippians 4:6-8 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
I could go on, but these verses should provide you with a ‘defense’ against any and all fears. You don’t really think that God was surprised… do you? He not only knew what was happening before it happened, but how you would respond. But He also made Himself available for you to lean on, learn from, and act with confidence.
In some respects I think that the ‘new normal’ always is occurring – sometimes faster, sometimes slower. We sometimes see it coming and prepare and we often don’t ‘read the signs of the times’. My point is that however the new normal arrived, however devastating the change is… because of the Lord, we can not only cope with it but learn from it. Even when these times are beyond our comprehension and ability to defeat. He is always with us and willing and able.
