The Battle Within: Conquering Anxiety and Finding Peace
As I watched my wife sew a hem under pressure, I couldn’t help but ask, “How’s the battle?” Her quizzical expression prompted me to realize that I often approach life’s challenges as a battle to be fought. But am I not supposed to be a warrior, strong and mighty? The irony is that I often find myself hunched over, worrying about the very things I’m trying to conquer.
The Admonition of Peace
This struggle is not unique to me. Many of us struggle to apply Paul’s wise words to the Philippians: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7) It’s easy to get caught up in the responsibilities of life, feeling like we must worry about providing for our loved ones and meeting our obligations. But in doing so, we forget that God is ultimately in control.
The Illusion of Control
Our problem lies not in our circumstances, but in our desire for control. We want to be in charge, to micromanage every aspect of our lives. But this need for control breeds anxiety and fear. Jesus, on the other hand, offers us a different kind of peace: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
Surrendering to God’s Plan
The key to unlocking this peace is surrender. We must surrender our need for control, our fears, and our worries to God’s loving care. As we trust in His goodness and plan for our lives, His peace will begin to rule our minds and hearts. It’s not about being passive or irresponsible; it’s about recognizing that God is the one who ultimately holds everything together.
Becoming the Strong and Mighty Warrior
As I learn to trust and rest in God, I’ll become the strong and mighty warrior I long to be – not one who worries and frets, but one who loves and fights for my King, my wife, my kids, and my neighbor, near and far. It’s a daily choice to surrender to God’s love and plan, and to lift my concerns to Him in prayer. And as I do, I’ll find myself walking in the peace that surpasses all understanding.
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