Posts Tagged ‘worry’

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Five Truths About Joy

Monday, January 9th, 2012

The more I read about joy, the more I’m convinced that God’s kids, more than anyone else on earth, ought to be living demonstrations of this characteristic. Anyone can be joyful when life’s honky-dory, but it’s not so easy when the basement floods, the kids break out in chicken pox, the car breaks down, and income runs out before the month ends.

Joy? What's that?

Our family shares a joke about a van we owned years ago. It was a lemon. Extra sour.  The head gasket blew between Christmas and January 1st two years in a row. It burned through three engines during its tenure as a member of our family. And once, on a trip through the Rockies in December, we discovered that the heater didn’t work. Picture this: Gene driving with our four-year-old son sitting beside him, wrapped in a blanket. Our two wee daughters sitting in the middle seat bundled with sleeping bags. And me—shivering in the back seat while scraping ice off the windows.

I’m sorry to say I allowed that van to dictate my attitude ‘way too many times. Like I said, joy comes easy when life’s easy. But it’s not so quick to show up when life presents challenges.

I read Psalm 5:11,12 recently: “But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. For you bless the godly, O Lord: you surround them with your shield of love” (Psalm 5:11,12).

Several important truths about joy come to mind as I ponder these words:

  • Knowing that God is our refuge is reason for joy whether our circumstances feel good or not.
  • We’re to sing joyful praises forever. Doing so is non-optional for God’s kids. He knows that joyful praises breed life in us and in those who hear us speak. Let’s do what He says—He knows best.
  • We’re to sing joyful praises forever.  That means always, not only until the good times end.
  • God spreads His protection over those who love Him. That knowledge should result in our being filled with joy rather than fear, insecurity, or worry.
  • The knowledge that God surrounds us with His shield of love is pretty good cause for joy, too, don’t you think?

Joy ought to be a hallmark of those who follow God. How are you doing in that department? Do you have a favorite Scripture that speaks about joy? If so, what is it?

Photo courtesy: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Free!

Monday, September 26th, 2011

I wish you could have heard the women sing at this weekend’s retreat: “I am free to run, I am free to dance, I am free to live for you, I am free!” Their voices, filled with enthusiasm, nearly lifted the roof. And their actions tickled me from the inside out.

Someone in the front row could not contain her joy. She grabbed her neighbor’s hand and together they stepped away from their chairs. They cruised the room in step to the music, their arms reaching toward heaven. A couple dozen others followed their example. Celebration filled the air. It’s been a long time since I’ve sensed such joy-filled, uninhibited freedom within a group of believers, and boy, oh boy, was it refreshing!

As believers, we have every reason to sing and dance. After all, Christ purchased our freedom when He died and rose again. Because of His great love for us, we are no longer slaves to sin and its destructive forces. We are free. Free. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Christ said, “I will say to the prisoners, ‘Come out in freedom,’ and to those in darkness, ‘Come into the light’” (Isaiah 49:9). He’s all about our freedom. Do you feel trapped today by worry? Despair? Unforgiveness? Disappointment? A besetting sin? If so, move your focus from your circumstances and inadequacies to the One who’s beckoning you to better things. “Come out in freedom,” He says. “Leave your chains behind.”

Christ’s invitation to “come out” kinda reminds me of His words to Lazarus – “Come out from the grave!” I can see it now—the once-dead man now singing, “I am free to run, I am free to dance, I am free to live for you, I am free!” Imagine the vigor and enthusiasm in his voice!

We should be as grateful. We who were once dead in our sins are now free indeed. Let’s stay that way. Let’s not let worry, despair, unforgiveness, disappointments, and besetting sins capture and control us any longer.

We are free! That’s worth celebrating! Do you agree?

Photo courtesy: Dreamstime

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Steps to Peace — Part 2

Friday, March 25th, 2011

Personal peace seems like a hot commodity in a topsy-turvy world. People want it, so they seek it in various places—relationships, alcohol, drugs, wealth, status, and even religion. Trouble is, the above might provide a counterfeit peace but it lasts only a short time. Then what?

Scripture is clear that Jesus Christ—the Prince of Peace—is the source of peace. If we want it, we need to enter a relationship with Him by confessing our sinfulness and acknowledging Him as our Savior. “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid,” He said in John 14:27.

Entering a relationship with Jesus is the key to unlocking the door to peace. After that, we can take several practical steps when fearful thoughts enter our minds. These are found in Philippians 4:6—“Don’t worry about anything: instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” In short form, here’s what those steps look like:

* Don’t worry about anything. Easier said than done, right? Many of us spend a ton of energy worrying about things that never happen or that have already happened and cannot be changed. We allow the “what-ifs” to disturb our sleep and make us sick. God knows the negative effect of worry on our brains and our bodies, so He has provided a way to deal with it. He says we should…

* Pray about everything. With the Middle East in crisis and Japan reeling from the recent earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster, we might feel that God doesn’t have time for our piddly concerns. At least that’s what Satan would like us to believe. The truth is, God invites us to bring our requests both large and small to Him. “Pray about everything,” He says, “not just the concerns you deem earth-shattering.”

* Tell God what you need. Be specific. If you need a job with different hours to accommodate your family’s schedule, tell Him so. If you’re lonely and need a close girlfriend, tell Him. If you need a fresh idea for work or a special project, say so. Tell Him what you need and trust Him to answer in the way that He deems best.

* Thank God for all He has done. Many times in the Old Testament, God commanded His people to remember His faithfulness. “Look back,” He said. “Remember what I did for you and speak of these things to your children.” When we thank God for all He’s done in the past, we find courage to face whatever lies ahead.

Philippians 4:7 follows with a promise. “If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

There, you have it! The steps to finding peace are few and simple. Trouble is, we humans make them difficult because we get stuck on “don’t worry about anything.” You’d think we believe worrying makes us more spiritual or able to control our circumstances!

Question: What can you add to these steps for experiencing peace? How have you seen these steps prove true in your own life?

Image: Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Because You Prayed

Wednesday, September 29th, 2010

I hope to have a heart-to-heart with God when I reach heaven because I have a few questions that need answers. Here’s one: What difference does prayer make if You rule over everything and have established purposes for our lives from before creation?

I wrestle with this question occasionally. How can my measly petitions change the outcome of a particular situation if God already knows its ending? Why does God tell me to pray without ceasing, to pour out my heart to Him, to bring all my requests to Him when He holds the script? This is a mystery to me. And yet, I know that prayer changes things.

King Hezekiah knew it, too. That’s why he continually sought God’s help. When an enemy king sent him a threatening letter, he didn’t waste time wringing his hands in worry. Rather, he spread the letter before the Lord and prayed. And God answered. Immediately afterwards, Isaiah sent a message to Hezekiah saying, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says, “Because you prayed about King Sennacherib of Assyria, the LORD has spoken this word against him…” (Isaiah 37:21). Then came a promise of the enemy’s defeat.

What might have happened if Hezekiah had tried to fight the enemy without God’s help? Or what might have transpired if he’d thrown up his hands in despair and waved the white flag of surrender? Or what if he’d succumbed to fear and gone into hiding? Only God knows. But this one thing we know – Hezekiah prayed, and his prayer played a role in history.

Because you prayed…three words that can change everything.

How do those three words apply to us today? Here’s an example….

Cancer claimed the life of a friend last Friday. She was only 47. She leaves behind a grieving husband and two young children. People prayed, and prayed, and prayed for her healing but their prayers appeared unanswered. At least through our limited perspective.

And yet, when I read her blog written as she processed thoughts of dying and preparing for eternity, I see God’s presence with her. I see how He carried her through months of treatment and failing health. I see how He helped her learn to trust Him implicitly and come to a place of rest. When she died on Friday morning, she left this world wearing a smile. How might the past three years have been different for her if people hadn’t prayed on her behalf? She might have died an angry, bitter woman.

Because you prayed…three words that can change everything. No matter what you’re facing today, know that prayer works. Give God the honor He’s due as Hezekiah did, and then bare your heart to Him. Share your concerns with Him. Tell Him what’s causing you pain or driving you mad. And trust Him to move on your behalf.  

How have you seen the truth behind these three words played out in your life?

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Voices – Part 2

Monday, September 27th, 2010

In the last blog, I wrote about negative voices and how we must choose whether to listen to them or ignore them. Isaiah 36 tells the story of an official Hebrew trio who were driven to despair through an enemy’s threats. When they relayed his words to King Hezekiah, he, too responded with despair. But then he did something worth noting.

First, he went into the Temple of the Lord (Isaiah 37:1). Second, he sought help by sending his assistants to speak with the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 37:2).

I believe Hezekiah’s response shows a lot of wisdom and sets a great example for us. When we’re dealing with a negative voice – whether an actual person verbalizing his opinion or the enemy whispering lies in our heads – it’s easy to become discouraged. If or when that happens, we can turn it around by doing what the king did – take our concerns to God and if necessary, solicit the help of godly friends. Doing so helps put the situation into proper perspective and gives courage.

How did God respond to Hezekiah? He said, “Do not be disturbed by this blasphemous speech (emphasis mine) against me from the Assyrian king’s messengers. Listen! I myself will move against him, and the king will receive a message that he is needed at home. So he will return to his land, where I will have him killed with a sword” (vv. 6,7).

The negative voice sent Hezekiah and the official trio into a royal tailspin, but God told them not to worry about it. He reminded them that He was in control and aware of the words that were spoken. He would hold that person accountable for the message spoken against Him and His people.

Likewise, negative voices can intimidate us, make us feel as though there’s something wrong with us, or steal our joy and enthusiasm for what we believe God has called us to do – if we let them. But we can overcome by remembering that when we’re living according to His pleasure and purposes, God will take responsibility for us and come to our defense. Our job is to keep our focus on Him.

What practical advice can you offer re: rising above the negative voice and message we often hear?

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How to Live Stress-Free

Friday, August 20th, 2010

Have you ever noticed how many books and magazine articles are written with a “how-to” slant? Here are a few examples: How to Lose 15 Pounds in a Week, How to Turn Your Junk Collection into Stunning Centerpieces, and How to Have a New Kid by Friday. Many of these articles and books contain advice that really works. Others leave me shaking my head, wondering how in the world I’m supposed to apply their counsel to my real life.

In my last blog, I wrote about how to apply the power of praise to our fears. This morning I read a passage that gives instruction about how to live above worry and stress. These words brought me such encouragement that I want to share them with you in their entirety.

Note that I’ve italicized the commands we’re to follow if we hope to live stress-free. But also note that each command is followed by a promise made by God Himself. When we do our part, we can rest assured that He will do His.  

“Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong.

For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers, they soon wither.

Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.

Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart’s desires.

Commit everything you do the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.

He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.

Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.

Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper – it only leads to harm.

For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the LORD will possess the land.

Soon the wicked will disappear. Though you look for them, they will be gone.

The lowly will possess the land and will live in peace and prosperity. (Psalm 37:1-11 NLT)

These commands contain great advice about how to live above stress and fear, but their practical application requires thought and effort. For instance, how do I not worry? How do I trust in the Lord? How do I take delight in the Lord? How do I be still in His presence?

I’ll share some personal thoughts on Monday’s blog, but for now I’d love to hear from you regarding how you follow these commands in practical ways. Let’s help each other out with suggestions that really work!

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Encouraging Words

Friday, April 9th, 2010

Proverbs 17:25 says, “Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.” I can attest to that!

When preparations for upcoming speaking engagements, writing deadlines or missions trips overwhelm me, I find huge encouragement if someone says to me, “I’m praying for you.” Those words bring added encouragement if that individual actually prays for/with me via phone, email or in person. The reassurance that someone cares about me lightens my worry-load.

I remember one instance in particular. Last July, I was one hour from leaving for the Vancouver airport enroute to Romania. My husband and I were leading our first volunteer team to a camp for young adults living with HIV/AIDS. The prospect excited me, but I felt a little anxious about details such as how the team would mesh, how travel details would work out once we landed in Budapest, how effective we’d be, etc. Then the phone rang.

The caller was a local pastor – a man with whom I’d attended Bible college in the late 70s. I’d had no contact with him since because our lives had taken different directions. He was calling in response to a magazine article I’d written about dealing with the fear of financial insecurity. “Thank you for addressing this topic,” he said. “Where did you gain your insights?”

“From life experience,” I said. “My husband and I are missionaries, and we deal with it all the time.”

“Really? Tell me about your ministry,” he said. And so I did. I started by telling him that we were headed for Romania later that day. Guess what he said? “Let me pray for you right now.” Those words, spoken at that moment, stripped my worry away. They were like a hug from heaven, a divine reminder of God’s presence and blessing on us.  

Perhaps you can relate. If you’ve experienced an encouraging word, please tell us about it. I guarantee – your words will be an encouragement to those who read them.

In the meantime, here’s a word for you today: “There is no one like the God of Israel, He rides across the heaves to help you. The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you” (Deuteronomy 33:26,27).

Have a great weekend!

It seems like forever, not a mere 12 days, since we visited the "Mother-in-Law" bridge in Odessa. These padlocks are posted by young couples to signify enduring love.

"Mother-in-Law Bridge" in Odessa, Ukraine

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A Loaded Question

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010

Questions are powerful. When properly used, they’re an effective tool in helping people identify the reason for their inner struggles and set a course of action to move beyond them. Jesus used them often, and He used them well. Take this question, for instance: “Why do you have so little faith?”

Jesus asked this as He spoke with the disciples about trusting God to provide their daily needs such as food and clothing (Luke 12:22-28). “If God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you,” He said. And then He fired the question: “Why do you have so little faith?”

Good one, eh?

Do you worry about finances? Do you stress over bills? Do you worry about money matters? I do. Granted, my stress isn’t as intense as in years past, but it still presents a challenge once in a while. And so I ask myself, “Why do I have so little faith?”

In all honesty, the answer is, “Because my understanding of God’s character is incomplete.” If I truly understood His ownership of everything on earth, His sovereignty, His ability to provide, and His unfailing love for me as His child, then confidence would bump fear to the back seat.  

So what can I do to increase my faith? I believe one key lies in remembering God’s faithfulness in the past. Scripture is filled with commands to “remember” – read Deuteronomy 7:17-19 and 8:2 for starters. Over and over, God told the Israelites to remember His power and recall His faithfulness. He knew that doing so would breed courage for the present and the future. And so, when my faith feels weak, I do what Scripture says and recall instances when God proved Himself faithful in the past. Lo and behold, it works!

If you worry about your physical needs (not your wants) being met, ask yourself the question Jesus posed to His disciples: “Why do you have so little faith?” Be honest with your answer. And then tell the rest of us what you do to build your faith when it feels weak.

Sometimes provisions are fresh...very fresh. This guy's gills were still moving!

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What do People See When They Look at Us?

Wednesday, September 16th, 2009

Here’s a thought for the day, based on Galatians 2:4 where Paul wrote about false Christians spying on him. These folks were entrenched in religious rules and regulations, but they’d heard Paul’s message about “freedom in Christ” and wanted to see what that looked like in real life.   

When people – especially those entrenched in hopelessness or fear – look at me or you, what do they see? I’m not talking about the color of our shirt or the highlights in our hair. I’m talking about other stuff…our countenance, the reflection in our eyes, and our body language. When people look at me or you, do they see…

a)     a woman wrapped in peace or warped by worry?

b)     a woman who faces the future with confidence or with anxiety?

c)     a woman who reflects joy or the jitters?

Hopefully we can circle the first option in each of the above. And hopefully we don’t need to add a conditional clause such as, “When others look at me, they see a woman wrapped in peace except at certain times of the month,” or “When others look at me, they see a woman who faces the future with confidence unless that future is lookin’ a bit gloomy,” or “When others look at me, they see a woman who reflects joy except when circumstances don’t turn out the way she wishes.”

If we profess to know Christ, then let’s ensure that our lives reflect the hope and peace that’s at our disposal. That doesn’t mean we have to be “happy, happy, happy” all the time – personally, I think that mentality’s a farce. In real life, we face tragedies and heartbreaks, and we shed real tears. But in the midst of those difficulties, we have hope because Christ lives in and through us. He will never leave us or forsake us. He promises to provide for us, care for us, and hide us in the shelter of His wing.

When people look at me or you, let’s ensure they see Christ in us, the hope of glory. For me, that means learning to express immediate thankfulness to God no matter what circumstances come my way. What change (s) must take place in your life for that to happen on a consistent basis?

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Simon Says

Friday, August 21st, 2009

As a little girl, I remember playing games on the lawn with other neighborhood kids – games including “Tag,” “Hide and Go Seek,” “Red Light, Green Light,” and “Simon Says.” Did you ever play the latter?

Someone – whoever was lucky enough to play the role of Simon – stood in front of everyone else and called out directions to them: “Take three steps forward.” “Move one step back.” “Hop three steps forward on your right foot.” Those who dared would try to sneak an extra step or two forward. If caught, they’d be sent back to the starting line. If not caught, they’d reach the finish line first and become Simon for the next round.

What fun we had! I look forward to introducing this game to my grandkids when they’re old enough to understand it. I also look forward to teaching them about the directives God has given His children. Take Psalm 37:1-11 for instance:

  • V.1 – “Don’t worry about the wicked. Don’t envy those who do wrong.”
  • V.3 – “Trust in the LORD and do good.”
  • V.4 – “Take delight in the LORD.”
  • V.5 – “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.”
  • V. 7 – “Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.”
  • V. 8 – “Stop your anger! Turn from your rage! Do not envy others – it only leads to harm.”

Take a moment to think about each of these directives. Which one speaks to you where you’re at today and why? Ask the Lord to teach you whatever you need to learn through it. And remember the rules…God gives the directives. If we try to wiggle our way around them, we lose. But when we follow them, we win.

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