Anxiety is worrying about things that we cannot control and worrying over things that we cannot remove from our thoughts. Anxiety dominates and controls a passive mind and a troubled heart, filling both with doubt, fear, and dread. The truth is clear. Anxiety cannot be removed; it must be replaced. We replace our anxieties by giving our concerns and worries to the Lord, trusting him to care for us. Then, as we thank him for what he has done and what he is doing in our lives, we replace those concerns and worries with a genuine sense of his presence through our thanksgiving. As a result, our confidence in his future for us can return to us, leading to even more reduction of anxiety and a greater anticipation of joy.
My Prayer...
Father, I know you love me. You have done so much to bless and save me. I deliberately place the worries and concerns of my heart in your hands... (Let's each take a moment and specifically mention what burdens our hearts today and give them to the Father.) Father, I also want to thank you for the many ways you have blessed me over my life... (Let's specifically mention blessings we have received from God). Now, dear Father, please fill my heart with your Spirit and my mind with the sense of your presence and peace. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
"Dear Father, foundation of all our lives, Make me compassionate and generous toward my brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us welcome each other, and..."
"[Peter said,] "Then Jesus arrived from Nazareth, anointed by God with the Holy Spirit, ready for action. He went through the country helping people and healing...."
"I will exalt you, my God and King, and praise your name forever and ever. I will praise you every day; yes, I will praise you forever. Great is the..."
Comments
Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment