As of today, we have a new set of rules for social distancing - notably the 'rule of six'. Listening to the various discussions, it is clear that clarity is lacking in the minds of many about where we are with guidelines! We are not helped by the differences between the four nations of the UK, nor by there being tighter local measures in some places, nor by the variety of requirements in different settings. I am sure most of us will make every effort to abide, some will not, but that is human nature. Personally, I think the authorities have a very difficult task to balance competing issues and so I err on the side of sympathy.

It is hard to get on with life when things seem to keep changing that affect how we live life. I doubt there are many people who genuinely thrive in uncertainty and instability. We look for certainty and stability. In the Old Testament, God says, 'I the LORD do not change' (Malachi 3:6). God is eternal and unchanging. To know God is to know where certainty, stability and security are to be found in a seemingly ever-changing world. If God is unchanging, then so is His Word - it stands forever (Isaiah 40:8). When rules, guidelines, messages and news seem to be forever changing, it is immensely comforting, encouraging and inspiring to stand on the solid rock on God's unchanging Word. The Bible is certainly not out of date, but because it is God's unchanging Word it remains utterly relevant to us all today. It is not good when individually or as a society we abandon God's Word. It needs to be read, believed and acted upon!