When we’re experiencing problems in our lives, finding peace can seem almost impossible…
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
I love fresh starts, new notebooks, and sunrises. And I love new years. I had hoped to step into January with excitement and energy, with peace and purpose.
But instead, I stepped into it with a heavy heart that was about to be crushed by anxiety.
My son came down with the stomach bug right after Christmas. Then it was my oldest. It slowly wended it’s way through our family.
When my children are sick, I am worried and fearful. I watch everyone for signs that they’ve gotten it. You’d think it was the Black Death for all the anxiety I have.
So, this year did not start as I had hoped. And yet it started better than I could have imagined.
His Peace for My Problems
In the midst of the usual panic that accompanies the realization that one of my babies is ill, I stopped and prayed. I prayed hard.
Fear can lead to fierce faith.
Lord, be my strength. I can’t do this without you. I need you, please.
And he was. He gave me the calm to handle the yucky business of caring for a sick child. He gave me the strength to hold them when my sense of self-preservation wanted to don a hazmat suit. And he gave me the peace to actually breathe through my troubles.
God took my problems and gave me His strength. His peace. And His love. Even though I felt like a horrible failure as a mother, unable to deal with the troubles of a sick family, God didn’t turn away.
Is this year starting differently than you had hoped or expected? Is your heart troubled, anxious, or fearful? If that’s the case, then there’s hope.
Have faith in your Heavenly Father and let His strength be your strength. He will fill the gaps created by our own human weaknesses.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5, emphasis mine)
So, let’s ask. Invite God into your heart and let him soothe it.
Let’s start this year depending less on ourselves and more on the power of our Lord and Savior. If we put our problems and plans in His hands, we will never be disappointed with what He does with them.
How has God comforted you, friend? How has He replaced your problems with His peace? I’d love to hear! Leave a comment below.
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