While we are anxious…He is our strong tower

We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 

2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Anyone else feel like your days are running together? According to mental health experts, this “blurring” of time happens when we’re under stress or experiencing anxiety. Well, that answers that question. But why, if we have faith and we know we are not supposed to fear, do we still feel anxious and scared? Why can’t we sleep at night? We’re supposed to be at peace, stay strong, and say, “I’m good! We’re good!” We know God is in control, yet we can still feel anxious and scared.

“God isn’t looking for superheroes.”

Louie Giglio

In Psalm 61: 1-2 (NIV) David says, “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth, I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge. A strong tower against the foe.” David, a warrior, a leader like no one had never seen before, was overwhelmed. The King James Version actually says, “my heart is overwhelmed.”

We have so many questions, “Is it okay to open things up now?” “Should we stay sheltered-in-place a little longer?” “Why did I lose my job?” “Why are those people walking so close to me without a mask?” “Why is my friend so sick from this virus?” And in the midst of our stress and questions, God responds, “I hear you, and I am with you.”

This week, as circumstances, feelings, and situations change each day, let’s pray together through Psalm 61:  

• Hear my cry, O God… I’m feeling anxious, scared, tired, and concerned. My feelings about this situation are real and I can feel frightened and a little out of control. Please comfort me.
• Lead me to the rock that is higher than I… The moment I feel anxious, wake me up, and lead me up… not down. Bring me to the rock, the cornerstone. You, Jesus. Please lead me.
• For you are my refuge, a strong tower… When I realize that I am not in control. Help me remember that You are able… able to guide us and change us to be more like you. You are in me. And I need you. Please be with me.

Let us know how we can pray for you. carolinas@ncfgiving.com