I rolled over in the dark and looked at the clock. 3:30. I sighed. Likely I would lay there wide awake for a couple more hours, longing for sleep. Then, right on cue, my mind started down the grim track of the calamitous and terrifying state of world affairs...the political mess...family troubles…disappointments…memories of difficult times (why can’t those stay in the past?!)...
Familiar? I’m sure you’ve had your own troubled nights when you feel the dark weight of despair and fear grip your heart. Why are things always worse in the night? The new day doesn’t always bring improvement and it’s hard to shake off the cloud of gloom.
It tells us in the book of Daniel that in the end times the enemy will ‘wear out the saints’ (Daniel 7:25). Pretty well describes it, don’t you think? We get worn down from the battles, and long for clean, simple times of peace.
So what do we do? I’m reminded of David in the Bible. It tells us that when things were dark and dire, he ‘encouraged himself in the Lord’ (1 Samuel 30:6). Pretty amazing considering his whole army was ready to kill him and he needed an answer right now.
So in my quiet time this morning, I realized I had to take myself in hand and get back to what was true. Get myself refocused on the Lord and use the tools he’s given me to stay in his peace.
Here’s what he reminded me:
to fear notDon’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Isaiah 41:10 NLT)
to trust HimTrust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV)
to keep my mind focused on HimYou will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! (Isaiah 26:3 NLT)
to rejoiceAlways be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! (Philippians 4:4 NLT)
to thank HimGive thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
to prayDon’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT)
to know that today will be filled with new merciesThe steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
If you’re struggling to find peace today, take these wonderful promises as God’s personal word to you. Encourage yourself in the Lord with them, and I think you’ll find fresh strength and a renewed perspective. It’s his promise!
Image by sun flower from Pixabay
Everlasting wisdom that is always perfect for troubled times. Just reading those verses calms the anxiety that comes from watching the news and listening to people talk about all that is and might be. God's got this and it's so refreshing to be reminded He doesn't want me to be fearful about these things.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Barb. I love the power of the Word to calm and refocus my heart after listening to the world's negativity! Yes, God's got this--love that. Thanks!
DeleteThanks for sharing some great verses of encouragement to focus on during dark times.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad it encouraged you, Joanna. Thanks. I'm so thankful for the Lord's Word. Blessings!
DeleteI hate nights like the one described and I do experience them too. So thanks for this wonderful reminder of how to refocus.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Yvonne. I'm still working at this and have been pondering these verses all week. May the Lord fill us with His peace!
DeleteI have those nights too. Your example of looking at truth in God's Word is such an encouragement. It is where I find my help too.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sylvia. It's a common trouble I think, but as with everything, the Lord has provided help. I appreciate your encouragement.
DeleteOh, yes, Wendy. I've awakened to the burden of despair and carried it around with me, too. Like you, I've sought peace, comfort, and assurance in God's Word. Thank you for sharing Scripture that reminds us of God's love and faithfulness, no matter the circumstance.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your input, Katherine. There's comfort in knowing others struggle similarly. But also, in our shared confidence that God is at work in all things. Bless you!
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