What’s robbing you of rest and contentment? Chaos in the world? Gas prices? Food bill? Health? Decisions? A life filled with anxiety and worry is not God’s plan for us! God wants us to STOP and to REST in His presence. In today’s message, Pastor Brent shares practical tips on how to help us do this.
Remember WHO is in Control
Mark 4 details the account in which Jesus and the disciples were in a boat and a storm came.
Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” He (Jesus) got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. Mark 4:38-41
We need to stop feeling like God is asleep and start seeing that He is in the boat WITH you! The disciples were looking at the storm (circumstances). We need to learn to focus on Jesus, instead of our circumstances. As we learn who is truly in control, we can experience peace, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Be Alert
“Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.” 1 Peter 4:7
Be prepared and know what is going on (don’t stick your head in the sand!)! Then PRAY… for wisdom, God’s had of provision, God’s healing, God’s protection, etc.
Cast your Anxiety
When fishermen use nets, they must clear out the things that are in the way before casting their nets.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
We too need to get rid of the things that are in the way of us casting our anxiety on God. We need to stop dwelling on our circumstances and internalizing our struggles. We need to remember that God is taking care of our needs.