All Is Well
The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.—Song of Solomon 2:12 (KJV)
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.—ISAIAH 26:3 [NIV]
“What if Mike and I get into an accident?” I asked my friend Julie over the phone.
“Um-hmm,” she said gracefully. Julie knows me well. She knows that I often get anxious, especially about traveling. I’d told her that Mike and I were planning a short getaway, but as the day drew nearer, I was having second thoughts.
“What if I become ill? Or the kids or grandkids need something while we’re away?” I said.
Worry isn’t a strong enough word for what I do. I let my imagination carry me away and think of the worst possible catastrophes that could happen. I’ve dealt with this anxiety for more than 30 years. It’s bad enough that I worry, but even worse that my worries affect my loved ones. Mike has to try to plan and enjoy a trip while dealing with my constant anxiety. I didn’t like doing that to him.
So I turned to Julie. Julie’s a good listener. She’s also a great spiritual counselor. “What if,” she said, “you allowed God to handle this situation?” As I listened to her advice, I nodded and smiled. I felt my muscles relax. I could do that.
God in heaven, I know anxiety helps nothing. Help me remember that you are in control.
The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.—Song of Solomon 2:12 (KJV)
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.”—John 17:20 (NIV)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.—2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)