5 minute read
Nonna’s kNOWledge
God Is Faithful
by Carolyn Joy
What a comfort scripture can be to our hearts and souls during stressful and burdensome experiences. Those are often the times when we see God’s faithfulness revealed. No matter the circumstances, King Solomon admonishes to Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life (Proverbs 4:23 NLT). I pray this scripture over my heart daily, for I know that what is in my heart will show in my life and on my face. Does your face show pain, hurt, suffering, and despair, or does it show the supernatural peace of God? Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV).
While stress can come from all areas of life and attack us at any point, three scenarios come to mind that invigorate us to press into scripture and search for the peace that only God can give—His supernatural peace.
Stress can come from things we are waiting for and want the most. It can enter our lives gently over the course of time, even while bringing excitement. Planning a wedding, anticipating the birth of a child, deciding where to move, or coordinating a family gathering are all wonderful events, but they can also bring out the worst in us. When planning for or reaching a new milestone, we have the opportunity to lean into the Lord and believe He has a plan for the details. We can trust Him to bless our efforts and guide all the specifics according to His will. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV).
PRESS INTO SCRIPTURE AND SEARCH FOR THE PEACE THAT ONLY GOD CAN GIVE.
Sometimes, stress sneaks into our lives as a result of our own bad choices. We can get all out of sorts, even though we created the chaos. Guarding our hearts includes keeping ourselves clear of sin. You can choose your sin, but you cannot choose your consequences. The Bible gives us guidelines to live by. When we do not follow them, sin can wreak so much havoc and lead to the need for extensive periods of healing. This is when scriptures are of utmost importance. Psalm 119:105 says, Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (ESV).
Stress often accompanies a sudden life-changing crisis, such as a major illness, death of a loved one, or a serious accident. The way we handle such matters flows from the condition of our heart.
If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, you are a child of The Most High God and, despite the circumstances, you can keep your eyes on God. When stress shows up in your life, how do you handle it?
Do you still believe God is in control?
Do you believe God can heal?
Do you still believe He has a perfect plan?
Do you place your faith in Jesus?
What do people see when they look at you?
As a believer in Christ, our face should reflect God’s peace and love even when we are troubled. Isaiah 40:31 says, but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint (NIV).
Journaling scriptures and prayers is a great way to remain focused on the Lord and can be done anywhere. Simply write a scripture that speaks to your heart at the top of a page. You can write it over and over or just once. But keep reading it. Then, write out a prayer to go with the scripture and date it. This will become a record of your daily prayers and will eventually be a reminder of how God answered. Praying and even listening to Christian music while writing will help keep your heart focused. Choose a place you love, such as a park or beach, or a place with your favorite view, a sunset or mountain view, and seek the Lord. Reading the Bible, writing scripture, praying, and being out in nature can make us feel closer to God and remind us of His magnificence.
Sometimes, just getting out into nature and walking and talking with the Lord will bring you peace to protect your heart, your mind, and your life.
God’s love endures forever. He will never let us down. God is our provider, comforter, Savior, lover, and friend. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Press into God.
He is faithful NOW and forever.
Carolyn Joy is a Southwest Florida Real Estate Agent, mother of three married children and Nonna to eleven grandchildren. She serves in her church and helps lead a women’s Bible study in her community. She’s the author of two devotional journals, The Overflow of the Heart and Let Your Heart Overflow with Joy, which encourage scripture memorization and writing prayers. Her novel, Out of the Grey Zone, demonstrates God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness, and unconditional love.
