This life with its many problems overwhelms us. Families all around us fall apart. We hear that the economy will soon collapse. Our government makes decisions contrary to our Biblical way of thinking. Instead of experiencing peace and joy, frustration and fear cling to our hearts and minds.
Because we live in a fallen sinful world, drugs, alcohol, divorce, unemployment, suicide, and terrible diseases affect all of us. Discouragement paralyzes us and keeps us from functioning in the victory that God intended for us. We feel burned out, exasperated and at our wits end.
Darts from the enemy seem to shoot at us every day and all day long.
Satan, the prince of the power of the air, the king over darkness, sends his attacks against society, against the Church, and against believers. He knows that his reign on earth will end soon.
It is easy to get discouraged and to feel angry and hopeless in our daily circumstances. Are you living in a defeated state or are you walking victoriously over the situations in your life?
God has a plan for us to live above the challenges of life. Instead of living in frustration, worry, or fear, He wants us to be filled with His peace and presence.
He says in His Word, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:6-8).
God tells us:
- Don’t worry about anything
- Pray with thanksgiving
- Present your requests to God
- Think about things true, noble and right
- Focus on things pure, lovely and admirable
Then He tells us that if we do these things, He will fill our hearts and minds with peace, which is greater than all our human understanding.
When life overwhelms us, follow God’s formula for perfect peace.
Promise: “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3 NKJV)
Partnering with God: Dear Jesus, This world and its mess, discourages me. Distractions keep me from focusing on You. I want to live victoriously in Your peace, not in my frustration and discouragement. Help me not to worry but to pray about everything with thanksgiving and believe You for answers. Make my focus on You and on positive virtues that will strengthen me in my daily walk. I want Your strength, power, and peace to fill my heart and mind. Lord, I believe You will do it!