The Lord stood by Paul and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.” (Acts 23:11)
Moses exhorted the Israelites to have faith, saying, “Look, the Lord your God has set the land before you; go up and possess it, as the Lord God of your fathers has spoken to you; do not fear or be discouraged.” (Deut. 1:21)
Once I have received my own divine ‘marching orders’ from God, I usually must face my human fears and discouragement about what lies ahead. Recently, I was presented with challenges on every front of my work as a counselor and supervisor in all three locations to which I travel. This is where I know God has positioned me to serve Him; that is, by serving persons addicted to opioids. After prioritizing and scheduling what was in my control, the preparations began. I felt anxious and overwhelmed after realizing the limits of my time, wisdom, energy, and leadership qualities. Yet, I marched on. Not because I believed in my ability to handle multiple, stressful situations, but because I recognized the impossibility of completing all or any of these challenges well without the Lord’s divine intervention.
Did I burn the midnight oil? Definitely. Did I seek assistance? With all humility. But most of all, I breathed deeply the peace that passes all understanding. My pastor preached a few weeks ago that the mystery of the Gospel and all God’s words, works, and love is what strengthens my inner being. Because Christ dwells in my heart and flames my faith, I can be filled with His power and fullness.
With this in mind, my primary strategy for resolving any battle or challenge is to bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6,7)
This is my prayer for you, too!
Janet
Sixty-six books in a year 