Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6–7 (NIV)
Oil and water don’t mix; neither do faith and worry.
Years ago, my husband’s job was in jeopardy. Clay’s company was undergoing reorganization. A third of the workforce was being laid off. He was in line to be laid off next. We had three children and had recently purchased a new home. Worry hung like a dark cloud above us, blocking out the sunlight. We didn’t want to live in fear, so we decided to turn our worry over to Jesus and have faith in Him. In return, He filled us with peace and the knowledge that He would sustain us.
Our faith was recently tested again when I decided to retire. Clay and I made this difficult decision after months of prayer. A few days after my retirement, our refrigerator broke. The next week, we had to purchase new tires. Then our home’s heating and air system died. Our savings have dwindled some, but we have peace knowing Jesus will meet our needs. Things continue to happen, but we refuse to worry. He has come through for us over and over, most recently by providing writing opportunities for me and overtime work for my husband. We continue to pray and make our needs known to Him, and always thank Him for His blessings.
Faith Step: Memorize Philippians 4:6–7 in the translation you prefer.
