From one man [God] made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.

Acts 17:26

2020--what a year! Who could have predicted Americans would be wearing masks to enter stores or that toilet paper would be a valuable commodity? I didn’t think I would see in my lifetime churches not meeting together physically. Many companies require payment electronically rather than cash, due to a coin shortage. We’ve been introduced to terms such as COVID, pandemic, Zoom, and social distancing.

All of these changes can make a girl wish for simpler times. Remember when we could eat in a cafe? Remember when we could work at the office? Remember when we could try on clothes at the store?

These are definitely challenging times. But God knew you were up for a challenge! It is no accident you are living in 2020. Acts 17:26 reveals that God planned for you to live at this moment in history. Not only did He plan the time of your earthly existence. He also decided where you would live. For me it is in the United States. Wherever you live, you have a purpose for being there. God made everything with a place and purpose (Proverbs 16:4 MSG). 

Our purpose can only be realized in Jesus. It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for (Ephesians 1:11 MSG). If you want to know more about Jesus, check out  The Most Important Thing.

In this world of uncertainty, we can wring our hands in worry, or we can take up our rightful place as heirs with Jesus. For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment (2 Timothy 1:7). Like Esther, perhaps you were born for such a time as this.

Lord, help us to fulfill the purposes you have for us in 2020. May we share your love and peace with the fearful.

Terri