Tip #4 on Thriving during a Covid-19 Summer

Stay Inspired

Some Bible verses to think about:

Philippians 2:4

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Romans 12:15-18

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

James 1:2-8

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

2 Corinthians 1:3-5

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.

Psalm 1:1-3

Blessed is the one

who does not walk in step with the wicked

or stand in the way that sinners take

or sit in the company of mockers,

but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,

and who meditates on his law day and night.

That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,

which yields its fruit in season

and whose leaf does not wither—

whatever they do prospers.

Romans 1:19-25

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.

Blog post after party:

As mentioned earlier, there are many different ways to encourage others. Music can be one of those ways! I hope you find these songs uplifting today:

“I’ll Find You” (Lecrae ft. Tori Kelly)

https://youtu.be/Jv8IqJm6q7w

“All I Need” (Hollyn)

https://youtu.be/bWLlB_QrvLQ

“Tell the World” (Lecrae ft. Mali Music)

https://youtu.be/Yc8x33lAnAk

“Jesus is Lord” (Kanye West)

https://youtu.be/rns_n82HiMo

These songs and more are featured on GoBU.tv app. Get it now at your app store and stay encouraged and inspired all summer long!

Tip #3 on Thriving during a Covid-19 Summer

Be Creative

Everyone has their own way of processing information. The same goes for how we address or cope with issues. While we try to comfort others, it’s beneficial to keep this in mind.

Try to meet people where they are by asking questions about how they’re doing, what they miss, and what they currently appreciate. Knowing these things, you may be able to more effectively help or comfort them. Start by praying for them, and prioritize listening to their experiences before trying to suggest solutions.

There are so many ways to comfort those around you, and the specific means to do so may be unclear at first. God knows what every person needs, and He gives wisdom to those who ask for it in faith. As you encourage people, remain in prayer and look to Him as a guide every step of the way!

Tip #2 on Thriving during a Covid-19 Summer

Draw Near to God

It is difficult to pour into others when our own cups are empty. We need to continue to look to God as our source of life and satisfaction not only for our own good, but also for the people and tasks that God has entrusted to us.

Use this extra time to seek God through His Word and through prayer. Be intentional about worshiping God with your lifestyle. Stay involved in faith communities like churches and Bible studies, and encourage others to join them too!

Surround yourself with people and media that remind you of God and His character, especially in times of fear and doubt. Take any anxiety you have to God in prayer. As He comforts you in your troubles, comfort those around you. (check out 2 Corinthians 1:3-5).