I was wishing today that there was an easy way to turn off the “I’m stressed” button. I so desire to be at peace and wait upon the Lord but find myself anxious when I don’t know the plan or have the answers I need, or struggle over the right decision or outcomes of choices I’ve made. I think of Joshua being told to be bold, fear not, and to go into the Promised Land, trusting in his God who had proven over and over again he is deserving of that trust. I rationalize that it was different because Joshua and Moses had a direct word from God. If I heard God’s audible voice, I could be like Joshua too. I forget that I have the infallible Word of God, the evidence of history, God’s hand at work in my life over and over again, and the Holy Spirit within me. I am surrounded by believers who provide wise council and love me. I remind myself that God has brought me through mountain top and valley experiences and his desire for me is to prosper. I also reflect on the life of Joshua and his assignment was much more dramatic than mine! Right before Joshua died, Joshua didn’t instruct the people to wait until they heard a voice but rather to be bold and faithful and God would be with them. Once again I’m driven back to taking my eyes off of myself and onto the one who promises to never let me go and to complete the good work he started in me. Well, that helps for now. We’ll see how I’m doing in five minutes.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6
Amy Wildman White 