Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV).
One of the freedoms we sometimes forget is that we get to choose where we shine the spotlight of our thoughts. Although we may not be able to choose our circumstances, we can choose how we view and respond to them. Just as the heavens declare the glory of God and the setting sun spotlights the Light of the World, so can we spotlight our Creator by choosing to focus on His majesty, power, love, and faithfulness.
Naturally, a dozen distractors will tempt us to turn away from the Light and get caught in the dark, dismal, and distressing. Anxiety will do the same. In fact, it seeks to dim the Light so that we cannot see clearly, causing us to stumble about in fear, fretfulness, or frenzy.
Of course, there is much to be concerned about, but that doesn’t mean we have to be anxious. It all depends on who you deem and trust to be in control.
What Can We Learn?
Naturally, the election of our nation’s next president is of enormous magnitude and consequence in terms of the direction our country will be steered for the next four years. So, it definitely matters.
Just remember — as with anything and everything that touches our lives, if it matters to us, then it matters to the Master. Take heart as you listen to:
It Matters to the Master (Lyrics by Rachel McCutcheon)
Obviously, our omniscient God already knows the outcome of our nation’s election and any other matter that concerns you. Remember that He has already promised to make all things work together for good to those who love the Lord, and who are the called according to his purpose.
So let’s be people of purpose. Let’s purpose to praise him. Let’s purpose to be people of peace. Let’s purpose to trust and follow His directive and not be anxious.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27, NIV).
Let’s shine the spotlight on Him and live in the world, but not of the world. And remember, as the song says, “He’s got the whole world in His hands.”
I love the quote a dear friend shared: “In the end it will be OK. And if it’s not OK, it’s not the end.”
So, until it is the end, let’s commit to axing our anxiety as the Bible commands: Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34, NIV).
As we close, may the message of Fear Not Tomorrow (written and performed by the Collingsworth Family) comfort and strengthen your heart.
Father,
Help us keep the spotlight on You so that we will not be anxious about anything.
If our attention starts to waver from what is true, noble, and right or that which is pure, lovely, and admirable, excellent or praiseworthy, please direct our thoughts back to Your sovereignty, Your peace and Your power.
Restore our hearts and our nation to righteousness, we pray.
In the name of our mighty, majestic, eternal King Jesus, Amen.
The Wobbly Warbler invites you to sing along and memorize Philippians 4:6-7:
I have been “sorta anxiously” for this post. I’ve missed your words. But even if I have to wait and reread your older posts, they are never stale like my hidden leftovers!🙃❣️
Dalene Dear, I am so blessed by you! Your words are just as joyful to silently read as your voice is exhilarating to hear! Both make me want to hop for hope and just hop in happiness. I love you and who you are in Him. And it’s not the end ! All praise and glory to Him. This is making my day fabulous.
One more thought— you use the best “f” words that have more letters than 4. “Fine” is just “okay,” but I love all your fancy words. Love ya lots and acres, Gracie