Dear Elim family,
I hope this finds you well, and at peace. I continue praying for God’s grace, protection, provision and PEACE in this time of uncertainty.
I’ve had several conversations with individuals that are struggling with anxiety. I thought it might be worthwhile to share with you what I’ve given to them as pastoral counsel:
- A question: Where and how do you find God’s peace? In other words, what “spiritual practices” help you connect deeply with God, and where you feel a strong connection with Him? (e.g. Reading His Word; a prayer walk; journaling; listening to Christian music; etc.). Make a list of the top 10 ways you connect best with God.
- Now, fuel up! And keep your tank full! I only ran out of gas ONCE in my life. After that, I’ve made it a practice to never let my tank get too low. Many of us struggle with anxiety when our “spiritual tanks” get low. So keep your tank full, and never allow it to even get close to low! Be proactive!
Here’s how: From your list you made above, use it as a list of “fuel sites.” Every day, schedule in time to engage in one (or, better yet, several!) spiritual practices. Fill that tank and keep it full! It will work wonders to whittle down your anxiety! - Now, another question: What practices (or even persons) ramp up your anxiety? Be honest! What people do it? What TV shows do it (even news programs)? What internet sites do it (e.g. Facebook)? As best you can, limit your time with those things/people that intensify your anxiety. C’mon! It makes sense, doesn’t it? If you’ve got a fire that’s getting out of control, it doesn’t help to spray gasoline on it!
It’s a simple formula (in life, it typically is!): More of God’s influence, less of negative influences.
All I just said is proven truthful when we read Isaiah 26:3– “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!”
It’s one thing to read a Scripture verse. Another level up is memorizing it. And another level is to meditate on it. But the ultimate level is to live into it! That’s when our faith really begins to work for us!
So live into that verse by practicing what I recommend above. Then enjoy God’s “perfect peace!!” Even in the midst of life’s greatest storms, like this current one, we can experience a peace from God that “transcends all understanding!” (Php. 4:7). May it be so for all of you! Yes, Lord! And so we all together say, “Amen!”
Love in Him,
Pastor Steve
