Overwhelming Anxiety
Recently, I have had extreme fear and anxiety watching and listening to the news. So much hate, division, and devastation. Many times, I have trapped myself in an anxiety filled state by engrossing myself in this destructive habit. Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple (Romans 16:17-18). This is what the evil one wants. He wants us to feel alone, angry towards those who have different views, and fearful.
Stronger United
Now think about what is broadcast on the news, on every news site on the internet, and any current events podcast. This is exactly what they report on; terrible events that are happening around the world, that often include death, destruction, and separation amongst the Lord’s people, thus, heightening fear in our hearts. If you tune your ear to hear it, you will find this is the devil whispering deceit in our ears. Prescribing a way to enlist worry in our lives, divide people so they are not strong and united, and to encourage people to not trust God’s handling of the future.
Trust in your Future
When I watch the news, I often begin to stress about the future. By worrying about the future, we are forgetting and not honoring the fact that God is in control. Jesus asks us to trust him so we can enjoy living in the present. We can offer these feelings of fearfulness to the Lord and ask him to carry the weight of these stresses for us. Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall (Psalm 55:22). When life is too much for me, and I ask God to take these feelings away, I literally feel a weight lifted off my shoulder and a sense of calm. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God (Philippians 4:6).
Find the Light
It is so easy to get lost in what is broadcasted all over the news. Remember, most people are kind, loving, and generous people. Don’t let the news convince you otherwise. If world events are causing you to stress, take the simple step to just turn off the noise, and instead take that moment to ask God to hold your hand. Tell him you trust in his plan, and to take away any troubling feelings. These quiet moments with the Lord will bring you great serenity amid any storm. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid (John 14:27).
Read my blog on Listening to God’s Gentle Calling to discover God’s gentle but powerful ways he speaks to us on a day to day basis.
Xo,
Merr
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