Life is unpredictable. No matter how hard we try to plan and prepare, challenges arise that test our faith and fill us with fear and stress. We worry about the future, our families, our responsibilities, and the unknown. These burdens can sometimes feel overwhelming, making peace seem out of reach.
But the Savior invites us to take a different path. He pleads with us:
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
What a beautiful promise that the Lord makes when we choose to trust Him. That doesn’t mean our trials will disappear overnight, but it does mean that we won’t have to carry them alone & He will help us.
When Peter had enough faith to walk on water toward Jesus, he did something incredible! But the moment he took his eyes off the Savior and focused on the storm, he began to sink. (Matthew 14:28–31). The same thing happens to us. If we focus on our fears, we will feel like we’re drowning in stress, anxiety, etc. But if we fix our eyes on Christ, we will find the strength to move forward. We are capable of shifting our focus to Christ no matter what we’re going through. It requires strength but we can choose faith over fear and feel the difference.
So how can we practice and strengthen our mind and soul to choose faith rather than fear?
1. Pray with Real Intent; Instead of letting fear dominate our thoughts, we can pour our hearts out to the Lord. He knows our struggles and stands ready to help us. When we replace anxious thoughts with heartfelt prayers, we invite peace into our lives.
2. Fill Your Mind with His Words; Fear thrives in the absence of faith. Immersing ourselves in the scriptures, in the words of God builds spiritual confidence and pushes out doubt. When we read about God’s faithfulness to His children, we remember that He will also be faithful to us.
3. Turn Worry into Worship; Rather than dwelling on what we can’t control, we can focus on what we can. On inviting positive thoughts, serving others, expressing gratitude, and deepening our relationship with Christ. When we choose to worship instead of worry, our perspective shifts from fear to trust.
4. Trust the Lord’s Timing; Fear often comes when we don’t see immediate solutions. But faith reminds us that God is never late. He is working in our lives, even when we don’t see it. Trusting His timing allows us to let go of stress and lean into His plan. Also, remember that fear is not an emotion that comes from God. He’s the giver of peace, love and strength. When we can recognize that, we can let go of the fear and trust that God’s timing will come at the perfect time. 👌
5. Take Action in Faith; Recognize that FEAR PARALYZES AND FAITH EMPOWERS. When we act in faith- whether by making a difficult decision, stepping outside our comfort zones, or simply choosing to believe that God is with us—we prove that we trust Him. And He always blesses those who move forward in faith.
The Lord has told us on John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. When we turn to Him, He replaces our fear with faith and our stress with serenity and peace. As we let go of our burdens and trust in Him, we will find the rest He has promised.
So today, whatever is weighing on your heart, take it to the Savior. Lay it at His feet. Allow yourself to be empowered by your faith in Christ instead of being paralyzed by fear which is what the enemy wants. Allow yourself to be the PROTECTOR of your mind. Choose thoughts that uplift you and help you. Be kind to yourself and others. FOCUS ON THE GOOD! 😉 on your blessings, on all that you’re blessed to have today. Take a moment to breathe and be present. Most importantly, remember that God loves you, and He will guide you through and be by your side to help you one day at a time.
Trust Him when He says “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
Let go. Trust Him. And find peace.
Unfortunately class is canceled tonight. But still keep your habits of doing something good for your body, mind and spirit. We will resume again next week. 🙂
I pray that this message helps you to gain greater trust in Christ, feel HIS LOVE & know that He has a perfect plan for YOU. 💖
Love, 🌸
Lili
