The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10 KJV).
Worry is often like a trebuchet’s projectile against a castle wall. An unexpected problem explodes in my life and sends my world careening. The invading circumstance steals my peace and imprisons my joy. Furthermore, if I allow it to continue disrupting my thought life, it threatens my trust as I become dissatisfied with my circumstances and begin questioning God.
Worry verb (used without object), worried, worrying. 1. to torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts; fret. 3. to torment with cares, anxieties, etc.; trouble; plague 4. to seize, especially by the throat, with the teeth and shake or mangle, as one animal does another Dictionary.com
After reading the definition, I envisioned worry as a predator. Have you ever felt as if something had you by the throat and wouldn’t let go? I have. Until I realized the goal of the enemy is to destroy me, but the Lord promised me an abundant life filled with the fruits of the Spirit, including joy and peace.
Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3
Peace is a fruit that must be cultivated. It doesn’t grow from nothing. Neither does it mean having my world in perfect order. It’s thinking differently about my world. It’s pondering on Him and His promises rather than dwelling on my problem.
(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 2 Corinthians 10:4-5
Doubt doesn’t line up with the Word, so I must discipline my mind to think of good things. Jesus didn’t doubt His Father’s love or ability to take care of Him. I must do the same. When I do, I will have peace in my spirit although the storm rages about me.
And the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
“The better we understand God’s Word, the more comfort we find in it. The darkness of trouble arises from the darkness of ignorance.” Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible
God has promised us true peace that can only be found in Him. Do you know that peace?
Gail Johnson 