WHIPLASH

Finding humor, hope, and steadiness in a changing world

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As a woman of a certain age, I sometimes feel like I"m in a state of whiplash, at least spiritual, emotional, and cultural whiplash. Whiplash is what happens when your head is suddenly jerked one way and then another. Well, that is exactly how I feel some days just trying to keep up with this changing world.

One day it is 90 degrees, and I am looking for my sandals. The next day it is 30 degrees, and I am digging for a coat, gloves, Uggs, and possibly a small heated blanket. The weather alone has me saying, “Lord, do I dress for summer, winter, or the rapture?”

Then there is the music. Recently, I heard a song in a public space where every other word was the “F” word. I thought, “Is there a clean version, or is the whole song on punishment?” I remember when people tried to hide bad language. Now it seems like some folks put it on a beat and call it entertainment. And don’t get me started on public attire. I see people walking around in pajamas, sleep bonnets, house shoes, and outfits that make me want to quietly whisper, “Baby, did you know you left the house?” I am not judging. I am just trying to understand when the grocery store became an extension of the bedroom.

And here is another one that still gives me whiplash: when did calling a woman the “B” word become a term of endearment? I"m sorry, but I still believe words matter. I still believe women should be honored, respected, and spoken to with dignity.

Now, before we get overwhelmed, let us remember something. The Bible tells us that Satan is the god of this world and the prince of the power of the air. He influences unbelievers, blinds minds from the Gospel, and governs a dominion of darkness. But let us be clear: he is not sovereign. Only God is sovereign.

That means we do not have to panic every time society takes another strange turn. We may get whiplash, but we do not have to lose our balance.

The world may be changing fast, but God has not changed. Culture may be confused, but God is not confused. People may call wrong right and right old-fashioned, but God’s truth still stands.

So when the weather is crazy, the language is rough, the fashion is questionable, and the culture makes you want to blink twice, take a breath. Laugh a little. Pray a lot. Keep your heart guarded and your spirit steady.

We are not called to be overwhelmed by what we see and hear. We are called to be light in the middle of it.

And if you happen to see me standing in the doorway trying to decide between a winter coat and flip-flops, just pray for me. I am still recovering from the whiplash.

The "crazy things" happening around us are real, but they are temporary. Jesus didn't promise a trouble-free life, but He promised His presence. He didn't say the world would be calm, but He said He has already won the victory over all the chaos. You are safe when the world feels out of control, remember that all your concerns are held in hands that bled for you. Moses was once the basket case, and look how he turned out we are going to be all right!

Take care, Divas'

Lady Bella

Diva 65 Project/Network Founder

LIVE LIFE ON PURPOSE