Editor’s note: This is a reprinted column from Jack Purcell’s “On the Journey” archives. It originally appeared in The Star in 2013.
Most people would agree that we live in troubling times. There seems to be opportunity for anxiety on every front. Many who are supposed to know these things are predicting financial catastrophe within the next few years not just in this country but globally.
Only the politically naive or those who are living in a river in Egypt cannot see that we are in one of the greatest spiritual battles in the history of mankind.
In my view, we had best fasten our seat belts because there will be no end to this conflict until the clouds split and Jesus comes to save his own for the last time. One could say that the world is at a crossroads.
Many people, Christians included, are worried and stressed about an uncertain future. The common term for this malady is anxiety.
In my years as a therapist I saw many people whose lives were controlled by anxiety. Most of us deal with anxiety from time to time, but the scriptures indicate that God does not intend for us to live under the burden of anxiety.
1 Peter 5:6-7 says, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all you anxiety upon Him because he cares for you."
Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
What are the issues that raise the anxiety level in your life? Are you worried about the economy or do you think you are secure in God's hands? Are you worried about your children or are you able to turn them over to the care of a loving God and rest in his care for them? Are you worried about your health or is it possible that no matter the outcome you can rest in the arms of Jesus?
Remember the promise of Philippians that "the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
When you find yourself at a crossroads in life, that is a great promise to draw on. We must remember, however, that for the fulfillment of that promise we must do the "casting" spoken of in 1 Peter.
It is always good to remember that God blessed us with free will, and he will not force his peace upon us. It is there for the taking if we will trust him. You may be thinking, "That's easy for you to say," and, indeed, it is easier said than done.
So if you have anxiety issues let me suggest that you begin with the smaller things that you worry about. Lay those at the feet of Jesus and see if he is able to handle them.
I think you will find it will strengthen your faith and eventually allow you to trust God with all things and enter into his rest.
Comment
Comments