Burdens can weigh on your mind. It's hard to sleep sometimes when you are going through a trial and you don't have a clue what to do. Every waking hour can be consumed with your dilemma.
I'm actually in the midst of such a struggle. Here is a scripture the Lord impressed on me,
"Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6 HCSB
This scripture is power-packed with things to consider!
- It says, don't worry about anything. That's a tall order, but it can be done if you really believe that God loves you and will work everything out for your good.
- Paul goes on to tell the Philippians in everything you pray, good times and bad. It's natural to complain to God when bad times come, do you pray when life is good? Or is He pushed to the back burner?
- Every prayer and petition needs to be made with thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is the crux of the whole matter. God impressed upon me before I start asking God to change circumstances, I'm to find something to thank Him for in the situation. I don't think it means you thank Him for the bad times, but find something praiseworthy in the struggle. For example, when Jim became ill (Read Day Four here), I wasn't to pray, "God, thank you Jim is sick," but rather, "Thank you, Lord, for providing a doctor to help us find the right medicine. Thank you that our church men's group came and put a new roof on our house when Jim was unable to do so. Thank you, someone saw our need and left us a box of groceries."
- Finish up by making your requests known. In other words, tell God what you want! Be specific. You are in a relationship. Best friends tell each other their needs. Spouses tell each other their needs. Why not tell your Savior your need?
I took this scripture to heart and found things to thank God for in the midst of the trial I am going through. No, everything is not solved yet, but I do see progress being made. Most importantly, I feel peace -- just like God said I would! Look at the next scripture:
"And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 HCSB
That's my wish for you, my friend. Find peace by refusing to worry, praying, thanking and asking God for help. The promise is sure!
One other thing God provides to ease our burdens is the prayer of friends. I am asking God to help you feel his continuing presence as you walk through this trial. I am asking that he lead you, enhance your wisdom, discernment, and faith; meeting all of your physical and spiritual guidance needs.
ReplyDeleteJerri,
ReplyDeleteI am praying for you also, with regard to your trials. I know that God loves you and will provide everything you need to get through it.
I have also been going through a trial myself and am standing on Phil 4:6! Thank you for the encouragement!
Jane
One of my favorite scriptures! You are right, there is always something be thankful for - and God gifts us with peace when we follow His instructions.
ReplyDeleteI love these verses in Philippians...praying for you during your struggle...His peace...the one true peace...that lasts...and the world can't take it away....
ReplyDeleteThat's been one of my favorite versus..and I will think about you know in your situation...
ReplyDeleteIt's not always easy to figure life out.
I have the up most honor for your desires and your attitude and I pray for your family. Jeri, remain faithful. Think not on the trials but on the "loveliness of Jesus" and how HE intercedes with Grace to answer our every need. Thank you for your messages.
ReplyDelete