“Do not be anxious or worried about anything.” Given all that’s happening in our world, this seems like a tall order doesn’t it?
I’ll be honest. The wheels in my brain still churn when I think of this verse. But in an effort to make it make sense for my everyday life, I have learned a few things. The first is to read the whole verse so that my mind engages with the words in its full context.
The text read in its entirety excites my spirit yet feels nothing like a cliff hanger because it steadies my heart. It becomes a full serving of a balanced meal, instead of feeding on crumbs, which leave me unsatisfied and possibly malnourished.
We cannot live on one meal a week. So why do we think 5 minutes of weekly prayer or bible study is sufficient? In the same way our body needs food, our spirit needs food. Jesus says, I am the bread of life, and I believe that this is the one time we should joyfully stray from being concerned about a high caloric intake. This bread needs to be eaten daily, and multiple times through the course of the day. So, as self-proclaimed connoisseurs of gourmet food, let us mirror that same passion in developing a hearty appetite for Jesus.
That said, I cannot overstate the importance of worship. There have been many times I found myself tongue tied, stumped for words because I felt I had prayed it all. Which in my opinion, could very well be a trigger for anxiety. Cue worship. Allowing the prescribed God inspired words of another, wash over me like rainfall. It has never failed me. Never. Soon, I am raptured into His presence; lost in the essence of Him. It has happened that I still did not have the words. But the difference is, I was surrendered to Him, not anxiety. He is the answer.
Before I wrap things up, what is that famous saying again, no man is an island? Right. We forget we need people. Correction, people of substance. A community of believers. Good company. Folks that will lend a shoulder and listening ear but also remind you of your God, intercede on your behalf, bombard you with encouragement, overwhelm you with the gift of patience, grace, understanding and compassion. Take a page from your Father who Himself lives in community, God the Father, His son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Finally, “but in everything (every circumstance and situation, big or small), by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your specific requests known to God.” This action is followed by a promise, “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 (your daily bread)” |Phil. 4:6-7|. The anchor is one that is so often missed, “the Lord is near.” He is coming soon, yes. But He is also here, right now in your moments. That’s the tea 😊!
I pray that as you wait on the Lord in this season, your strength is renewed. I pray that you are invigorated with life and purpose. I pray that His love letters to you silence the wails of anxiety. I pray that Jesus book ends the pages your life and fills your days. It is well with you in Jesus name. Amen.
Happy Monyaaay!
Xo, Mel.
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