Is this you? Or maybe it’s your children or grandchildren? Some are disappointed that Halloween is canceled this year in many cities. While it may disappoint our little ones to miss the fun of putting on costumes and begging for tasty treats, taking away this privilege is for all our good.

I, for one, would rather have my grandchildren disappointed and safe than appeased and sick. Halloween will live another day.

We take many of our privileges for granted. For example, we can shop at will for that candy corn in person, online, or automatic reorder. I’m learning to use a grocery shopping app today, so it’s on the top of my list.

That’s a small thing, really, in the grand scheme of things. But these days, having the ability to order online has been a godsend to those of us living in quarantine. (One more week to go.)

Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in the hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Instead of thinking about what we can’t do anymore, at least in present circumstances, why not focus on what we can do by accepting Jesus as our Savior by faith.

We can choose to experience God’s peace through Jesus.
We can choose to stand in God’s grace.
We can choose to be hopeful even in our trials.
We can choose not to be miserable, even in our current circumstances.

The act of choosing alone gives us some control over our thoughts and feelings. This is something many have struggled with these past months. Friends, God is in control of all things, but that doesn’t mean we let our minds drift into a muddy pumpkin patch of worry, waiting for God to pluck us out.

Try focusing on the good things (Philippians 4:8).

With each trial, God grows us up in the faith when we persevere. That implies action on our part. For me, I must believe that those walking through this pandemic experience with Jesus will develop a deeper faith, proven character, and remain hopeful in the face of disappointment.

For those walking alone, I’m not so sure.

Where will you choose to focus your attention today? Are you disappointed because your plans changed this year? Don’t be, God’s plans for you haven’t changed.

Posting in the Five Minute Friday link-up this week. The writing prompt is DISAPPOINT.

You can also find me on Lili Dunbar’s link-up

Featured image photo credit Merriam-Webster.com