Many are prone to worry, to fretting about things that cannot be changed, becoming anxious over what may or may not happen. Time is spent thinking about what may never take place and trying to sort out the details of what is not known. In writing to the Philippian church Paul had talked about how he had been respected as a Pharisee following the law and a persecutor of Christians but gave it all up for Christ. He reminded his readers that he was in prison because of the Gospel, and not because of having done anything unlawful; that they may suffer in various ways, have unexplainable struggles, or experience the unexpected which could suddenly and drastically change the course of their lives. Therefore, he wrote, Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God (Philippians 4.6). Being anxious would change nothing; having faith in the sovereign Lord and being thankful would make all the difference.
This is a reminder we should often heed. As we consider our lives and the unknown future or expected events of today, floundering in anxiety will not strengthen us to face those challenges. Rather, we are called to be diligent in prayer; to approach the Throne of God’s Grace in faithful submission, seeking His wisdom and guidance, desiring His strength and power to overcome all temptations to worry and whine about the present and the unknown to come. In praying, we are called to have a thankful heart, knowing our Lord will accomplish His good purpose in and through us. Our responsibility is to trust Him, to believe His Word, to be faithful in our walk. We do not need to know the future to live in faith; we do not need to know if all things will work out in a way that pleases us. We do need to anticipate all will be done as providentially ordained by God with purpose and will ultimately work together for our good and will bring glory to His Name.
Trusting through prayer – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry Burlingame
My Morning Desk 