From Anxiety to Abiding

 Readings 100626 

Years ago, 

An evangelist preacher came to my cousin's church 

claiming to have special prophetic insight 

into Scripture.

Instead of leading people closer to God, 

his message stirred fear, 

confusion and worry, 

even though the Bible 

had already given the meaning.

We can do something 

very similar in our own lives.

Spend hours trying to predict tomorrow, 

worrying about bills, family, health, 

and whether we'll be able to provide. 

Before long, 

our hearts become a battlefield 

filled with anxiety 

over things we cannot control.

I've been there myself.

When we carry every burden 

as though everything depends on us, 

we end up like Martha, 

busy at work but weighed down within.

Then Jesus speaks those gentle words:

"Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things."

He doesn't rebuke her for serving.

He lovingly points to what is driving her service.

Anxiety had taken the place of trust.

Faithful action begins 

with faithful attention.

When we lay down our frantic plans, 

sit at the Lord's feet, 

and listen to His Word, 

our work is no longer fueled by fear.

It becomes an overflow of grace.

The goal is not to do less for God.

The goal is to be with Him first, 

and then let everything else 

flow from there.

Prayer

Lord, 

Quiet the worries 

that compete for my attention.
Teach me to sit at Your feet 

before I rush into activity.
Let Your Word shape my thoughts 

and steady my heart.
May all I do today flow from trust, 

grace, and communion with You. 

Amen.