I just loved reading Sue’s story about her husband losing his job and then her prayer of answered groceries! It just reminds me there is a much bigger plan and I just do not have the scope to understand it. I highlighted this line and I think I will remember it for sometime when I am reaching for big things and I need to realize that God is in everything:
“God, if you can answer my simple, faith-filled request for groceries, You can do anything!”
Isn’t that the truth? Trusting Him in the small things really can build our faith to rely on Him for the much bigger things in our lives. And, as Sue explains, parenting brings enough anxiety all in itself. It is stressful, anxiety filled and full of doubts.
Sue’s one word answer on how to keep from allowing anxiety and those debilitating thoughts from completely capturing our mind is to PRAY!
I have to be reminded over and over again some of the basic elements of my faith, and that is what I love about this book, they are simple reminders but oh so real!!
“He gave us His Word so that you and I can have perfect peace and confidence.”
Anxiety steals so much from us and paralyzes us from truly believing what God has in store for us and what He will do to provide for us. I like that Sue says, “anxiety is a deceiver.” So true. It will exaggerate every negative thing until we cannot even possibly see any positive things.
So what are we to do?
Simple steps to walk in God’s Peace:
1. Reading the Bible
2. Prayer and Meditation
3. Forgiveness
4. Journaling
5. Church Community
6. Books
7. Podcasts
8. Conferences
9. Counseling
Which of these areas are lacking in your life right now or need some attention? What steps can you take this week to make a change in just one area to help bring your life back into God’s Peace.
“God’s peace established order and balance in your life and home. God’s peace is a tangible force that overwhelms overwrought emotions with God’s powerful presence.”
Seriously, read that line again – isn’t that amazing? Hang onto that line for future reference!
I was really taken with Sue’s reference to replacing my anxiety with God’s peace being a moment-by-moment choice, and that is true. I cannot think that I pray once in the morning and I am covered all day, I need to live with Him in me all-day! Every second asking for His peace. I will often get caught up in the moment and that is when things begin to unravel.
I pray if you deal with any anxiety issues that this chapter will give you more useful resources and tools to counter what the enemy wants to encumber you with. I get anxiety issues and thankful that I can say I am able to overcome, but it is with His grace and power that I can.
