Rise Up and Praise
Too often we dwell on the problems, needs, and issues crashing in on our lives. Our mind wanders from one anxious thought to another. We focus on how we can change our circumstances or “fix” them. We spend so many hours trying to figure out what we can do to change the situation and before we know it, we cave at the overwhelming weight of our anxiety.
Even though God says, “Be still and know that I am God” and “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light,” we somehow allow those words to drift off to nothingness and allow our own words, such as, “Why do I have to go through this? When will this end? What am I supposed to do to get out of this situation?” take up residence in our mind. These thoughts establish fear, doubt, anxiety, and confusion. None of which are healthy
or bring resolve to our situation or experience.
Have you ever been confused about God’s direction in your life? Have you been anxious or restless? Have you kept taking things you give to God back, only to give it back to Him again. If you have been or are currently experiencing these things, consider what is occupying your mind. When we are fully engaged with Jesus by reading His Word, listening to His voice, and meditating on His words and beauty around us, we experience perfect peace.
He says in Isaiah 26:3, “the steadfast of mind you will keep in perfect peace.” [NASV] The Message translation says this, “People with their minds set on you, you keep completely whole, Steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don’t quit. Depend on God and keep at it because in the Lord God you have a sure thing.”
My constant prayer is that I will walk in the peace and love of the Lord, without wavering, being prepared at all times to bring encouragement, healing, hope, joy, peace, and comfort to those who come across my path. How can I do that if anxiety, confusion, fear, worry, or discouragement is taking up residence in my mind and heart? I can’t, and neither can you. Only a heart postured to Jesus, filled with His Spirit can walk in perfect peace and love of the Lord.
I encourage you dear soul to focus on the only person who can give you real, long lasting peace – Jesus Christ. Spent time with Him and He will turn your anxious state into joy and praise. Praise shakes Heaven. Hebrews 13:15-16 says, “Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.” Praising God moves mountains in our lives. Praising God brings joy. Praising God illuminates our way and gives us victory. Spend time with Jesus and praise Him for being who He is. The more you do that, the more you will feel joy and peace that is secure and can’t be shaken.
