There are times in life where stress is a major factor. It could be related to work, finances, disabilities, home issues, or any number of reasons. Stress tests our faith as we encounter it. Stress is in our face and will make us pay so much attention to our circumstances that we forget the promises of our Savior and God. But, our faith tells us to give our cares to Jesus, because He cares for us. The Lord will give us peace by letting us release our worries and fears to Him. We are instructed to not worry or fear.
Psalm 46:10. King James Version ... Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
• PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God"
• "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God"
Stress as we know, causes fear and worry. As we are told, as we are commanded, do not fear or worry. Believe in the word of God, trust in His word, and live in faith.
John 14: 18 there is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Since we have been made perfect in the eyes of God, we are to rest in His word. His word of help, and peace. The Lord listens to the prayers of the righteous, and if He hears, He is sure to help. Since we have been made righteous by the blood of Christ, we can be sure the Lord will see us through our difficulties, no matter the size of them. That is a true test of our faith. It is so easy to be faithful when things are going well, but we need to be faithful when conditions look bleak and disastrous.
2nd Timothy 1: 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. It gives us the courage to display and speak our faith.
We can live without fear in the knowledge that God is in control, and as He states in Jeremiah, He causes all things to work for the good of those who love Him. The Lord God does not abandon the faithful, but comforts and protects them. Our greatest threat to His peace is our own doubt. Always put your trust in the Lord because He cares for you and will help. When you give the Lord your problems or concerns, don’t reach and take them back. Give your cares and thank Him, then go on with your life knowing He will handle this.
Just as Peter had fear and doubt upon him when he walked on the water and started to sink, we must keep our focus on the Lord and believe. Jesus said it best, oh you of little faith. We are told to believe in what is unseen, for what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal. Believe in God and His word.
Isaiah 40: 31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 41: 10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Psalm 34: 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm 94: 19 When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.
Philippians 4: 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
Consider my favorite,
Psalm 23: 1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
The Lord never says anything He does not mean. It is impossible for God to lie, His word is always true, and then so is His promises. Take your strength from God almighty and rest in His
Word. Be assured that He is in control and will deliver you as He has for so many in the past. You are His adopted child, and He will protect you vigorously. As His word goes out before you, He makes your path clear.
Isaiah 41: Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
Put your cares and fears in the hand of God, rest in the peace of Jesus Christ who will handle these issues. Trust in God and be at rest. Call out to Jesus and let Him bring you peace of mind by knowing that He will help.
I do realize how difficult this sounds, but I have on many occasions had to face this myself. I do and will always place my fears, and worries in His capable hands. I am merely a man, His creation. But He is God, the creator of all that is, I know He can handle anything in my life.
Trust in God and His Word, that He will never let you be lost to troubles. They are only temporary things, but they can also be so consuming, we are not sure if faith will carry us through. I can assure you, that the Lord will not forsake you. He cares for you much more than you can ever realize. Let the Lord help you get through. The very reason He did the miracles is to show God’s great power and love.
May the peace of the Lord be with you, AMEN.