With the easing of restrictions this week, I am so grateful that we are heading even closer to a return to “normal” life in Singapore.

Looking back on the past two years, I can’t help thinking: what a journey we have had! Since Covid-19 first landed on our shores and the circuit breaker was implemented in April 2020—exactly two years ago—it’s been tough going for all Singaporeans.

One of the challenging aspects of living with Covid-19 has been the uncertainty. With the situation changing constantly, it’s been hard for many to plan ahead. Yet, many of us have tried to cope in our own ways.

Two of my close friends, for example, went ahead with their marriage plans in January 2021 despite the uncertainties and fears. They moved into their new apartment the same month, and one year later, had their first child. They named him Matthias, which means “gift of God”.

Not only were these significant life moments in themselves, but they came at a challenging time. Changing restrictions on gatherings could have scuppered their wedding arrangements at the last minute. Buying, setting up, and moving to their new home would have been challenging, as furniture and other deliveries could have been affected. Worst still, having a child at this time was risky: hospitals were overwhelmed, and there was always the fear of the mother being infected with Covid-19.

Whenever I asked them how they managed to cope with all these uncertainties and worries, they would reply, “By the grace of God.”

Fear of the unknown is something we all grapple with, and it has been especially true in these past two years. What struck me about my friends was their utter trust in God to help them cope with the unknown.

It reminds me of Mary, who was told by an angel that the most amazing thing would happen to her—she would bear a child, the Son of God himself. This proclamation must have turned her world upside down and brought much fear and anxiety. Yet, as one translation put it, Mary replied: “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true” (Luke 1:38 NLT).

What an amazing response!

“May everything you have said about me come true.” How many of us can say the same thing? How many of us can accept the challenges that happen to us, and trust that God will see us through?

Covid-19 is far from over, yet my friends continue to live by faith like Mary did, accepting the things that God has allowed to happen in their lives, and taking each day as it comes with God’s strength.

I don’t know if I could have handled the same challenges and changes as well as my friends did. But their example inspires me to learn to accept what God sends my way, to keep going knowing that God has a plan for every one of us. And even though I may not know what these plans are (until they happen), I hope that I can be like Mary, and pray with confidence:

“I am Your servant, O Lord, let everything You’ve planned for me happen. I know that You love me and will see me through whatever happens.”

Even as Covid-19 restrictions continue to ease, we may continue to face uncertainty and anxiety in our lives. In such times, may we always remember our Father’s love for us and how He has seen us through our challenges; and may we always depend on His guidance and strength to live each day, trusting in Him to lead us to tomorrow.

Trusting in You
Who brought me through
Like the morning dew
Grateful am I each day
In Your everlasting grace
These words I sing
Till that glorious day
I will always be
Thankful for each and every day
Author: Shawn Quah

Shawn is a laid-back, friendly person who loves online gaming and the opportunity it brings in meeting new people across the world. He loves eating and though his favourite food is a well-kept secret, we have it on good authority that it’s either hor fun or char kway teow. He enjoys writing poetry in his free time and hopes that the Lord will continue to inspire him each and every day. Despite the fleeting and uncertain nature of life, his fondest wish is to continue living it in service to the family he has come to love dearly—God’s family.

Share this with your friends:

We would love to help you grow in your relationship with God.

Get email updates on our latest print and digital resources

*Indicates required information

Full Name *

Email Address *

Year of Birth *

Follow us

Connect with us on our social media channels