This could be just a typical Friday for most people. The last work day of the week, with thoughts focused on looking forward to the weekend and all it has in store.
OR this could be the day our government shuts down and your thoughts are consumed with "what are we going to do?" "How can we survive financially if our pay check is cut in half?"
Well, my day started out with thoughts like the second one. Worry about congress not passing a budget. Thinking about being a one income family and worrying about what we will do. This morning as I stood in the bathroom getting ready and feeling consumed by these thoughts of worry, I felt an overwhelming sense of reassurance - a strong sense of peace that this too is going to be ok. A sense that me worrying over this will not do any good nor bring me any comfort. BUT worrying over it would bring just the opposite and it will not resolve anything. What can be gained from worry? (nothing) Will it get us anywhere? (no)
I do not think that there is anything wrong with acknowledging a real problem...and the government possibly shutting down is a real problem. BUT the Bible does tell us that it is not healthy nor productive to worry. How can I possibly understand all that God has planned? I can't, but I can turn over these feelings to the one who can and does understand. So what can I do in place of worrying? PRAY. Why is it that my immediate response to situations like this are responses of worry? Or thoughts of "why is this happening?" It is easy to let the worry take over. But He assures us all through scripture that His plans are not to harm us.
Knowing God does not want me to worry and knowing that He wants us to rest in His promises gives me peace. Knowing that He is more than enough gives me peace. Knowing that He is more than sufficient for all my needs gives me peace.
Scripture that I am finding comfort in right now:
(my life verse) Romans 8:28 - "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."
1Peter 5:6-7 - "therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."
Philippians 4:6-7 - "Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension will guard against your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:19 - "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Life is not going as planned, BUT I am so thankful that even though I am caught off guard by this situation, He is not caught off guard.
So I ponder....How are you handling this possible shut down? Are you worrying? Have you not even given it a second thought because it does not directly affect you or your family? Are you turning it over to God? Does your faith depend on Him answering it-just as you wish it answered??? Or are you resting in the complete trust that He will not leave you or forsake you??? Me, well I am resting now. I have spent the day in prayer...I will continue to pray...Please direct my steps, Lord and please direct the steps of our leaders...please
5 comments:
Praying for you Jessica! Yes, I have worried. R works for the government and if it doesn't pass, he doesn't work. But after talking to him, he assured me that more than likely the budget would be passed within a few days (if not by tonight). He said it's all political and that this happened back in '95 and his mom was out of work for 2 days. I'm praying that this is something similar!
Praying for you! And I LOVE those verses you posted! Some of my favorites!
I am a new follower and I am so glad that I am! I really needed to read those reassuring words from the Bible. :-) I am a little worried that this will go on for a while, long enough where it will affect us financially. We are supposed to PCS in six weeks... this COULD throw a wrench in those plans. After reading this I am going to go pray... for our leaders, our country and for everyone that could be affected. Thank you for reminding me that while things seem out of control HE is always in control! And HE will pull us through. :-D
Thank you Jessica for your words of encouragement!!!! Iwant my soldier home!!!!
Hi Jessica,
Seeing this on so many blogs today. Praying for peace for you as soon as I shut my computer in a few minutes. Visiting from the UBParty. I'm a little late joining in, but so glad I did!
Blessings,
Amanda
I ended up doing the same thing as you and Praying. I also listened to Casting Crowns "If we've ever needed you, Lord it's now," most of the day. I was chatting with my husband this morning and I said "wait and see how God uses this one" and in some way I have to believe that.
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