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 your hearts, and your minds in Christ Jesus…Phil. 4:6-7

 

I’m reminded of a time when I had just completed my spring semester in seminary. Prior to this time, I was overwhelmed by the pressures of life. I had to keep track of my kids' homeschool schedule, shop and prepare meals for my family, maintain the upkeep of my home, and ensure that my kids and I complete our semester well. I was burdened by the thought that I would not be able to complete the demands of book reviews, research papers, and final exams. Although I had a month left before the spring semester would end, it seemed as if I would never get there.

 

Each time, I thought of the freedom that would soon come, I was able to breathe and focus on the present; but when I thought of all the tasks before me, I felt anxious as if I was slowly suffocating. It was as if I had a Mary-Martha complex wrapped into one. When Jesus was on his way for a visit to Mary and Martha's home, Mary patiently waited for him to come, while Martha was busily trying to prepare for his coming. I imagine, in a modern sense, she polished the furniture, made the beds, vacuumed the floor, cleaned the bathrooms, cleaned the kitchen, possibly placed items in the attic so that her procrastination wouldn't be exposed, and set it off by diffusing a combination of citrus oils. When Jesus arrived, Mary sat at his feet adoring him. She was amazed by his glowing face, his humility, and his fervent spirit of compassion. She waited immensely for every teachable moment. Martha envied Mary's focus. She self-righteously judged her sister thinking she, Martha, was on the right path when actually, she had lost herself in the work (Luke 10:38-42).

 

During my distressed period, I chose to fixate on the end results while allowing the Lord to be my guide one step at a time. I had to yield and be prayerful about the “how” while at the same time, be thankful for the platform that God had placed in my life. He has given me a hard-working husband who has allowed me to homeschool my kids. He has allowed me to learn more of His Word by attending seminary. He has allowed me to assist my daughter with her biology labs by way of dissecting fish, crawfish, a frog, an earthworm and more. He has allowed me to study along with my son and provide insight during his History, Bible, English, Algebra, Science classes and more. He has allowed me to have daily conversations with both children about His Word and His work in their lives...He has given me a home that we can utilize and share in unity together. He has…the list goes on…!

 

As I reflected on His goodness in my life during this trying season, His peace overflowed my soul! What a great feeling to know that God is with us even in the most pressing times in life. Since then, I have had anxious thoughts, yet when I'm still, His settling voice reminds me that He will never leave me, nor forsake me. Yes, it is because of Jesus, that I can continually feel the love of God. He guarded my heart and my mind as I reflected on His goodness and yes, I accomplished all that was before me.

 

Keep in mind…

1. He is ever-present.
2. He is not distant from those he loves.
3. He is a responsible and orderly God.
4. He is our peace.
5. We have choices…
6. We must be prayerful regarding the “how.”
7. We must be thankful for all that He has given to us.
8. We must be thoughtful, not allowing life to consume us.

Encourage and Be Encouraged!