Relief from Anxiety & Fear
Yesterday I was doing some of my writing for On Fire and came across this verse in my past writings. It was just what I was looking for to send to a friend for encouragement.
It is simple but comforting.
Sustain means:
1: to give support or relief to
2: to supply with sustenance : nourish
3: keep up, prolong
4: to support the weight of : prop; also : to carry or withstand (a weight or pressure)
5: to buoy up
sustained by hope
6a : to bear up under
Even though we read this, why do we still worry and have anxiety over so many things?
Part of the answer is that simply believing in Jesus is not going to keep flaming arrows from coming our way. We don't get out of trials and problems just because we know where we are going and have salvation.
I do believe that Satan is interested in ruining our ability to shine Jesus to others that do need Him. If he can keep us bent out of shape, in knots and fits, then we cannot do the things that would actually make people interested in what we have.
Yesterday I had looked up verses dealing with peace. This one made me stop and think:
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You.
Isaiah 26:3
I realized that this promise of "perfect peace" is for those whose MINDS are STEADFAST.
What does steadfast really mean? The definition I found in the dictionary is:
1. fixed in direction; steadily directed:
2. firm in purpose, resolution, faith, attachment, etc., as a person:
3. unwavering, as resolution, faith, adherence, etc.
4. firmly established, as an institution or a state of affairs.
5. firmly fixed in place or position.
Remember all the past messages and our focus on our minds? We don't have to change circumstances to have peace. When our minds are fixed in direction, firm in purpose, unwavering, and attached to our Vine, then we can be at peace. Fixing our eyes on the reason we can be steadfast, our Maker, rather than the situation we are in, that is how peace comes.
I know it is a process. I know it's not easy. But, I truly believe if we can learn IN THE MIDDLE of our situation how to cast our cares on Him and stay fixed in our minds on His promises that the next time something comes up, and it will, we will be even more prepared and have stronger trust.
Jesus. Just His name can quench fear and anxiety. Say it. Think about Him. Think of all the things God has gotten you through in the past. Stay firmly fixed in that place.
jennie
