Not Exempt
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4 6-7 (NLT)
Over the past 18 months, things went sideways at my workplace. Many things have changed, and the virtual plates in our department have been piled high. Some of the things that were on the plates, fell off, never to be picked up. I am dreaming about spreadsheets, wake up at night thinking about the things that need to get done…There are just not enough hours in the day to accomplish all of it. I am exhausted even before I arrive at work.
How can I handle all the demands at work, at home…and life in general? Last week, my dear friend Marsha reminded me that there is a prescription for anxiety! One of my favorite books in the Bible is Philippians. To be more specific, Philippians 4. This chapter is packed full of encouragement for the downhearted, the exhausted, the discouraged.
Marsha also reminded me that I have had a book in my to-read pile; Max Lucado’s “Anxious for Nothing”. I pulled out the book, and started to dig in. Not sure why I didn’t think about the book earlier.
The apostle Paul reminds us to pray about everything; to tell God what we need; to thank Him for all He has done. I have to admit that I am not a great prayer warrior like some of my friends that have structured prayers; a set time to pray. My prayers are short. Sometimes all I can muster to pray is “Lord, help”. The Lord does help; He is near. He sends friends to encourage you, to stand with you in tough times.
The Lord keeps you from all harm
and watches over your life.
The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go,
both now and forever. – Psalm 121:7-8 (NLT)
My sweet friends; life is not filled with unicorns and rainbows. Even as a Christian we are not exempt from life turning sideways. Remember to seek the Lord for help; He is ever so faithful.
Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for watching over us when life turns sideways. Thank You for sending friends to stand with us so that we can move over the mountains that are before us. We are trusting in Your mercy. In the precious name of Jesus – Amen.
Photo & Content Copyright © Iris Nelson
That book sounds like a good read, Iris. I admit that I’ve been filled with anxiety over some situations myself. Maybe, I need to purchase that book.
Iris, I’m so glad God used my post to spark your memory. It seems to be a theme many of us are struggling with right now. Praying blessings over you my friend.