Conquer Anxiety . . . Talk With God

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJ)

While serving with the USMC in Viet Nam, I failed to reply to letters from home. It wasn’t always so easy to write under the circumstances and stress of the battlefield. Many times, I simply was not mentally and emotionally up to the task.

I didn’t know writing to someone I loved might have actually helped me. I was concerned about causing my parents more worry, so I didn’t reply to all of mom’s letters. I failed to consider that mom and dad would have prayed for me. I did notice, however, that when I didn’t reply to a letter, she wouldn't write again until after she received a letter from me.

After my tour of duty, I asked her, “Mom, why did you stop writing to me?” She frowned as she spoke, “Because you stopped writing to me. I thought if you didn’t want to talk with me I certainly was not going to trouble you.” I didn't consider that mother's worry increased when I didn't reply. I didn't consider that I was sending the wrong message to my family.

When she didn’t write, I thought, “she doesn’t love me.” But when I didn’t reply to her letters she thought, “What has happened to my boy? Is he alright? Doesn’t he love me anymore? Has he been injured or killed?”

It seems that we treat God the same way. We pray and make our requests but if He does not reply as soon as we desire, we stop praying. All sorts of confusing, discouraging questions race through our heads. Has he forgotten me? Does he love me or not? Where is he when I need him? Isn’t he concerned about my needs? And we conclude, "He isn't going to answer me."

God has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5). Consider this: if you desire a response from Him, you must talk with Him and let Him know your requests. In our conversations with God, even if we think we are the only one talking, he conveys his peace into our spirit, which guards both heart and mind.

Dear Father, thank you for listening to us and giving us peace. Empower our praying with a fervent faith. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. AMEN

Pray, Believe and Trust! Receive the peace of God today.