Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Sometimes it is easier said than done when we read the words “do not be anxious about anything.” Certainly it is easy to say those words to others when they are facing a crisis, but not so when we are in the midst of a trial. When we receive a bad health report, disturbing news regarding a loved one, or when faced with job loss or other problems, our first reaction is usually to worry.
I have never been in a hurricane, but in the eye, or very center of the storm, there is calm. It’s almost impossible to imagine with a storm capable of widespread destruction.
There have been times in my own life when facing a major storm, that I felt peace. In recalling two particular incidents, I first had great anxiety. However, when I prayed and poured out my heart to God, thanking Him for his grace, mercy, power, and might, peace flooded my soul. I didn’t know what the outcome of either situation would be, but I knew that whatever happened, the Lord was near, He was in control, and He would never leave me. Though the storm raged, I felt safe, secure, and calm in His loving arms.
I am thankful that we serve a God capable of calming the mightiest of storms. He doesn’t always take us around the storm, but gives us peace through them. When we come to Him in prayer and make our requests known to Him, He gives us peace. Peace beyond understanding.
Father, I thank you for hearing the prayers of your children. We thank you that we can experience peace—even in the midst of the mightiest storms. It is comforting to know that we can call on you in times of distress and have assurance that you hear our prayers and petitions. In Jesus name, amen.
Linked to: It’s Not About Me November and Sister to Sister.
