Wednesday June 8, 2022

Wow, it's great to be back! If you do not mind, before we get into our scripture, I need to "unpack" the many emotions in my heart. Most of those who might read this blog know that I have been out of town for my son's wedding.  I was honored to be his best man. His wedding day was a very joyous day, but also very sad. I was overjoyed for Sam that God has blessed him with a great wife.  Yet, I was sad, because Sam is not just my son, he is my best friend-but now that he has a family of his own, my role in Sam's life is now different. I understand that God designed it this way, but there is a part of me that grieves.  Of course, Sam knows that I am always available for guidance and council, but he must now learn the responsibilities of having his own family. Sam is now accountable to the Lord for the condition of his household! It is important that Laura and I move aside; Affording Sam and Abigale the opportunity to learn for themselves how to deal with the difficulties that life will throw their way. There will be great moments, but there will also be tragic, heart-breaking moments. Both Sam and Abigale love the Lord-as long as they always put Him first, there is nothing that can break the holy bond of marriage. 
Let's go ahead and look at today's scripture:

​Philippians 4: 6-7
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

As I mentioned above, everyone goes through rough times. We all are given a choice as to how we respond: we can fret and worry, while trying to control or manipulate the circumstances in our favor... or, we can trust what God's word says.  I'll be the first to raise my hand and admit that I do not always get this right.  In my brain I know what choice I should make, but my heart is often deceived, so I end up making the wrong decision. I've even found myself justifying my actions by the "God helps those who help themselves" line (which is NOT found in scripture). When we find ourselves feeling anxious, it is important to communicate with our Father. We must guard our hearts and our minds from the notion that we can fix every problem that comes our way. Of course, I'm not advocating that we simply "throw up our hands" and give up-we must be sure to communicate and listen to the Lord.
Being "anxious for nothing" is not easy, but the end result is  abiding in the Lord's peace and comfort.
"Lord, help me to be anxious for nothing. Give me the grace to trust in your solutions to my problems...amen."