Stepping out from a doctor’s appointment, my heart was racing with thoughts of being so unprepared for this part of my story. Soothing words wrestled with my emotions, but it didn’t take away the feeling of losing control.
Flipping my bible open to verses on anxiety, I read 1 Peter 5:6 and my heart sank with the first two words: “Humble yourselves.” Was my anxiety stemming from pride?
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7 ESV)
Anxiety and stress can tempt us to lose sight of the sovereignty of God. Fear might overcompensate with pride and persuade us the outcome can be controlled. The problem with these emotions is that they will wear our human hands and hearts out.
A humble heart acknowledges the mighty hand of our Sovereign God and can accept that we’re not in control. Humility helps us let go of the questions and cast our cares with confidence in a loving, powerful God.
When we’re willing to release our grip on life and pray from a place of surrender and humility, we see the Truth that God cares enough for us to work it all out for our good.
The Almighty God who got us here can also take us there. He cares that much for us.
Are you still holding onto control in an area of your life, as if you can handle all that is coming your way? When those anxious feelings come up, think about where your future rests. Will any of your decisions change what God already has in mind?
If you feel like you’re drowning in anxiety, here’s a good place to refocus those thoughts: Father God, I know You are for me and not against me. You hold my past, present, and future in Your hands and will not let me stumble. Help me step down from the throne of control and humbly accept Your love and peace. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
© 2020 by Trisha Keehn. All rights reserved.
First Published on Beloved Women
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