When we are anxious

Peter’s letter contains one of the most quoted and loved verses on anxiety “Cast all your anxieties (burdens) on him, for he cares for you.”

This is wonderful good news to the person who is anxious and worrying but the Word of God does not start with that thought. Instead we find strongly worded command to “humble yourselves, therefore, before the mighty hand of God.” This is key to helping combat worry and anxiety. It is the lesson learned by Job and it is here summed up: humble yourself before the mighty God.

This is the rock solid assurance for our souls, that there is a mighty Creator, a Lord of heaven and earth, bigger and stronger than all of the creation. He is exalted and glorious wonder, seated on a throne, surrounded by thousands of angels and creatures declaring and singing his praises.

When we begin here, at the throne of God, we will be humbled before him. When we recall the deeds and character of God we will bow in humiliation. And it is here that our sorrows, anxieties, and burdens are cast at his feet. The same mighty God who spoke the universe into being is the one who cares for us. Cares so much that he “has called us to eternal glory in Christ” and chosen us of all the created things to be his beloved.

This will begin to spread the light of the Gospel hope into your burdens and anxieties. This will be a lasting cure for the sinful tendency to worry and fret. The God of the universe, enthroned in light, has redeemed you. Rest in him and be well.

 

-joe