Dr. Kluane Spake
God desires for us to be exceptionally fulfilled by connecting with His incredible love. And yet, many are discouraged by the disappointing challenges of life and have failed to fully “connect” with the help they need. The bombardment of bad news and busywork leaves many of us listless and without hope. Most of us live with lots of anxiety – not only to what’s actually happening -- but also to what MIGHT happen, and what we imagine SHOULD happen.
One of our important assignments is to become an overcoming Christian in the midst of adversity. That means we MUST learn to refocus our attention. There will be wars and rumors of wars. Matthew goes on to tell us that these times will be marked with betrayal.
It seems easy to be overwhelmed! “Why do the nations assemble with commotion (uproar and confusion of voices), and why do the people imagine (meditate upon and devise) empty schemes?” (Ps. 2:1). Luke 21:26-28 says that men’s hearts will fail them because of fear over the things that may happen on the earth. Imaginations try to devour us all. We’re told to lift our head, and take heed lest our hearts (soul, feelings, ambitions, and emotions) be weighed down (depressed) with (escapism such as) carousing, drunkenness and cares of this life (vs. 34). Jesus commanded, “Let not your heart be troubled” (Jn. 14:1). That means that we don’t permit it, and don’t allow it.
The problem is that this stored up negative STRESS can negatively zap our immune system and weaken or destroy healthy cellular activity. In other words, worry and anxiety can destroy our destiny. Old unresolved memories are the wilderness to be conquered. We’re in charge of our inner person. It’s our responsibility to “put on the new man” and not to accept trouble. That’s not only a challenge! It’s a must. We must REFOCUS upon the love of God. That’s who HE is. People can lay hands on your head until there is no more hair… but it is up to you to put on the new man. -- You do it.
It’s about internal undergoing change. Paul also said, “Don’t fret.” That’s a command and not an option. “Do not have any anxiety about anything (a command), but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer (proseuche – worship) and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving (gratitude), continue to make your wants know to God. And God’s peace (shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, and that peace) which transcends (excels above) all understanding (the intellect) shall garrison and mount guard (post sentinel guards to protect) over your hearts and minds (thoughts and feelings) in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6, AMP).
We all have legitimate concerns --
but the key is to concentrate on learning to love the Lord.
And so my friend, let us not be overly concerned about what we will wear tomorrow, what might happen tomorrow, or even about “my ministry.” Consider the lilies (Lk. 12:27) … and learn how to trust God. His love is ever present. That’s what sets us apart from the rest of the world. Let’s not worry about offenses, wars, doctrine, or theology. Christianity is not essentially about organization, or a building, or a bunch of regulatory laws. And, it’s not about how busy you can be – it’s all about become LIKE God -- and God is love (Jn. 4:7-8).
THE PRINCIPLE IS NOT WHAT YOU DO FOR GOD,
BUT WHO YOU BECOME INSIDE.
I will never leave you – keep your eyes on Me. You’ve heard it before, but now it is essential for you to secure the time for your heart to draw near and be at peace. Come aside my beloved and let there be stillness. Be at rest. Create an environment where I can dwell and expand within your being. There, I will envelop you with the depths of My existence. I will speak to you with the breath of my love. Let me escort you into My embrace and reveal my assurance and love to you in new measure. My love is here for you right now.