God’s encouraging word, written in the 8th century b.c. to His people suffering in exile, is infinitely loving and tender, as we are advised He is on hand to help and we have nothing to fear. We have an awesome God, who gives ‘power to the faint, abundant strength to the weak’ (Isaiah 40:29) and countless other Scripture quotes emphasizing God’s abundant and plentiful provision for us, throughout the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.
Yet, many times we doubt and often as caretakers become so consumed, we have little, to no time for prayer. If we do not stop to fill our physical and spiritual needs, we are not able to give from an empty place. When I am struggling, it has been my experience, God is there to catch me as I fall. Grace overcomes my imperfections and when I have done all I can, with the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, I let go and let God. Of course, this does not come ‘instantly’ or ‘easily.’ Despite difficult circumstances, transformation eventually occurs within me, as I trust God with each situation. Where else can I go to find hope to continue my journey? I believe the ability to hope comes from my trust in God’s generosity, goodness and enduring love.
I read the Bible each day and prayerfully ask the Holy Spirit to let Gods word strengthen and help me to grow. Over time, I have seen a difference. I complain less and find God’s strength in adapting to my life circumstances. While God is forever faithful, humanly we tend to take God for granted. It is usually in a crisis or when we need ‘something’ that we remember we can’t do this on our own. Prayer is our opportunity to approach God as a trusted companion. Being faithful to God, not the ‘distractions’ of the world, reveals that God’s presence and love, the constancy of His concern and care for us remain steadfast, no matter what is going on around me.
Obviously, we get anxious and are guided in Matthew 6:25, 33 - “Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more that clothing? But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be given you besides.” To know one is loved by Someone you can trust is the best and most comforting feeling in the world. Seeking God’s kingdom means leaning and relying on God for the strength to trust.
The best way to defeat worry and fear is to try to resist even before these thoughts enter our minds. Ephesians 6:16, “In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” Do you believe God will give you the grace, wisdom and strength to continue to trust? Which choice is yours worry, fear or faith? Comment’s welcome.