Every once in a while I thought it might be an encouragement and help to you if I share a Bible verse which has helped me. Being God’s Word, the Bible is vital. Jesus said we don’t live by bread alone but by the words that proceed from the mouth of God. His truth instructs us, corrects us, encourages us and sets us free unlike anything else can.
The verses below came to mind this morning as I weeded the ivy in front of our yard. The weeds had encroached quietly yet steadily until they had gotten out of hand and choked back the opportunity for anything else to grow. Anxiety and worry can be like weeds. We can’t let them take over. So here are verses I turn to quite often to weed out the worry in my life and to face challenges, combat the devil’s lies, and work through things that bother me.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:4-9).
Jesus wants us to spend less time worrying and more time seeking and trusting him (Matthew 6). He is in control and is always working everything out for good for those who love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). Another verse fits right in with this: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, but in ALL your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Reading God’s word, praising him, and talking openly with him about all your concerns, will open up the doors for him to save you, transform your thinking, wipe away anxiety, affirm you, give you hope, and embrace you with his love and peace.