Devotional Guide, Today’s Reading – Wednesday May 1, 2019

Theme: ANXIETY

Text: “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.” – Psalm 112:7.

Comment: People are anxious because they desire answers to what they see as weighty questions about their future.  In the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, people worry because they want to continue to live and not die. There are also issues about daily food and clothing. (Matthew 6:25)  Breaking down the life issues further, people also worry about their marriage, health, work, children, security, justice, etc. Lack of clear answers to questions raised leads to tension, fears, even frustration. The “fight or flight” response we have is to seek refuge in God Almighty. Scripture says: “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” (Psalm 56:3) “Be not afraid of sudden fear …  For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.” -Proverbs 3:25, 26.

When confronted by profound issues or challenges we should not resort to smoking or drugs or miracle workers but to the Bible for strength and guidance. (Psalm 56:4; Proverbs 1:33) Then one should take the matter to God in prayer. (Philippians 4:6, 7; Psalm 55:22) It is helpful to also calmly analyze the issues personally or with the help of knowledgeable people, who may also have had such experiences in the past. (Psalm 119:59; Proverbs 11:14; 15:22) “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.” – Isaiah 26:3, 4.

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