Fears and Tears

I was unsettled last night. Before I went to bed, I read a headline on my Facebook feed that gave me great anxiety and fear. It was about the persecution of Christians with an urgent prayer request. I prayed immediately, fell asleep, but constantly tossed and turned all night. When I woke up, I looked for this headline, but it seemed to disappear. I researched a fact checking website, and found out that this post has been circulating since 2014. While I have no doubt that prayers are so needed at this time for the world, it was a reminder to stay firmly grounded in prayer at all times.

It seems like there are many things in the world calling out to us to lose our peace, to feel hopeless. Especially when terrible events are happening all over the world and close to home. I don’t have control over them. How many hours have I let slip away in my distraction, in my worry, not knowing what to do.

Time is so precious, a gift from God, to use for the good, to let go and let God. Turn to Him, who gives peace not fear, who gives love not hate, who is the same always. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

As I fight to quiet my mind and read scripture every morning, to listen to where God is calling me, to let go of the distractions that come, to remain faithful as the day goes on with my thoughts directed to God, I am thankful He is there every moment. I present my prayers for everything that is in my heart, some of which only the Holy Spirit can convey to God, as I don’t have the words. I wish to give the Lord my time, because He returns it with abundance and offer up every moment, however small, to the Lord as a prayer. That is where the peace is, a turning towards God in everything.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.