We are talking about faith this year at Christ Church and one of the things we have learned already is that we can relax because God is leading us, even when we don't clearly see the path ahead.
So many of us go through our days trying to fit God into our plans. But what if we shifted our perspective? What if we prioritized Jesus, walking in His ways instead of our own?
Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV [8] “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. [9] “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
He promises to lead us with tender care and a watchful eye. True peace comes not from controlling our circumstances, but from depending on Him.
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This is a beautiful promise from God. We don't have to carry the weight of worry. Instead, we can bring every need, every fear, every concern to God with a grateful heart. This is an act of surrender. When we lay down our burdens, and give them to God it brings a peace that surpasses all understanding.
1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV [6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Knowing this truth is a constant source of comfort and rest.
God is our Good Shepherd, leading us even when we're unaware of the direction.
Psalms 23:1-6 NIV[1] The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, [3] he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. [4] Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
There's no greater peace than knowing that God is in control. Let Him guard your hearts and minds, filling you with rest and peace. We don't have to over analyze every single step. We can relax, knowing God is always leading us.
Romans 8:38-39 NIV[38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the peace and relaxation you so freely offer. Thank you that we don't have to be burdened by worry. You offer us a worry-free life through prayer, bringing everything to you and laying it at the foot of the cross. Remind us, in our moments of anxiety, of the truth in Philippians 4:6-7. Thank you for the peace you give us, for protecting our hearts and minds. Thank you for always leading us.
Forgive us for the times we rely on ourselves more than on you. Thank you for this reminder that we don't have to analyze every detail of every day and every circumstance. You hold every detail in the palm of your hand. You are leading us in every detail. Forgive us for the times we are not sensitive to your guidance.
Thank you that we can take a deep breath, release our worries, and relax in your peace. No earthly peace can compare to the peace you offer. We trust that Your Spirit is guarding and guiding us. Thank you that we can relax because you are leading us. We love you, Lord, and thank you for being our Good Shepherd, who cares for us so deeply.
In your name we pray, Jesus, amen.