The last couple of months, my ministry partner and I have been on a sabbatical. A sabbatical is an extended period away from work for personal growth and reflection. It is a time for us to be intentional in seeking God’s call and provision for 2025.
There have been many times over the last couple of months where I have been intentional in being still. Being still so I can hear from God. During the times of being still, I find my mind trying to control my thoughts. I have tried to stop the thoughts and the worry that creeps in by praying and giving it to God. Yet the minute I stop praying, my mind is back to trying to figure out next steps.
Has that ever happened to you?
Then I came across this quote…
You can’t prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair. ~Chinese Proverb
I changed the word sorrow to worry and I decided that it appears I’ve got some birds of worry swarming around. It also appears that they are taking up residence.
I have found over the last several years that worry is NOT from God. If I truly have faith and trust Him like I say I do, then I have to let go. I have to let go and surrender the situation to Him.
Fear, worry, and anxiety are all weapons of Satan. They keep us from experiencing the full life God has for us. These emotions tend to overwhelm us and keep us paralyzed.
1 John 4:18 (NIV) says, There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears in not made perfect in love.
They say faith is believing without seeing. I think it’s also believing without feeling. It’s believing in those moments when our hearts ache, worry consumes us, and our tears betray us by spilling over. When we know better, but feel the worry and/or pain any way.
Faith isn’t a feeling. It’s believing despite our feelings.
So what’s the answer?
I have to do more than pray. Praying is one step in combating worry. I have found that getting into His word and reading all His reminders and promises is also an important step. His word gives me what I need to combat what Satan is trying to do to stop me.
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
When I read His truth and promises, the feeling of love, security, and peace take over. These feelings allow me to be still, listen, and Hear from Him.
Have you been trying to be still and hear from God? Pull out your bible and read His promises and truth. Talk to Him. Hear from Him.
Oh, and by the way, it also helps keep the birds from building the nest in our hair!
With love and joy,
Laura
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