Selah2020: Pause and Reflect

[Transcript of Martin’s midweek message published by Horley Baptist Church on YouTube^[1], 04^th June 2025]

Life is – well, it’s full of worries. So many things to feel anxious about. Our friends our family our work our future And yet the Bible reminds us that we don’t need to do this alone.

Do not be anxious about anything but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
Philippians 4 v6-7 [NIVUK]

It’s not easy. In fact, you might say it’s impossible to not worry. And practically I deal with it by trying to be in control, to plan, to research, to learn as much as I can about a situation. Sometimes I have to admit I’m just not in control. There’s nothing I can do. There’s nothing I can plan in order to make things better. And that’s when anxiety can get the better of me.

But what if, instead of turning to anxious thoughts, we turn to prayer. I don’t know if you’ve ever had a chat with a good friend who listens intently and carefully and offers comfort in times of trouble. See, prayer can be a bit like that really. We come to a God who listens, who cares, who understands. And whereas we can lose control God never loses control. And what he can offer us is a peace that goes beyond our natural reaction or what our reaction should be to a given situation. It’s a peace that transcends understanding.

See, I found that this has worked for me in those times when I faced anxious situation, difficult work decisions or family commitments and issues that are causing me a loss of peace. I found that when I turn to prayer instead of anxiety I find that comfort and that peace. A peace comes over me and my heart rate starts to slow when I pause, I pray and I take comfort in God’s love and understanding, focusing on his faithfulness.

Now God doesn’t always offer immediate answers or solutions but he does offer me a peace that helps me cope. So maybe take a moment today whatever it is that you’re facing to talk to God and let his peace replace your anxiety.

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[1] YouTube link: Promises for the Faithful #1
 
Previous message: Are you lost? , 15/Jul/2021

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