Day 24
|
 |
Pray that the Lord would give you His peace that goes beyond understanding to guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6) Pray that the Lord would grow the fruit of the Spirit in your life, and that in all ways you would walk in His peace.
Anxiety and tension are some of the most destructive forces we can face, both mentally and physically. They sap our strength, undermine our faith, and keep us from maturing in the Lord.
Worry and fear come into our lives when we choose to rely upon our own strength in a circumstance, rather than upon God and His Word.
When we choose to lean on our own understanding, instead of God's promises, we are placing ourselves, or the overwhelming situations we are facing, "before" the Lord. The moment we step into that place of self-reliance, we open our emotions to fear.
But there is hope and freedom for anyone caught in the fear trap. Jesus said,
"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest." —Matt. 11:28
But to enter that rest we have to cut off stress' source of power: our unbelief.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. —Proverbs 3:5-6
Are you weighed down by anxiety and tension? Jesus can give you His peace. Repent for not believing His promises, begin to give Jesus first place in your life, and then enter into His rest.
|
