WHAT IF PEACE IS ONLY A PERSPECTIVE SHIFT AWAY?
You’ve seen this scripture a thousand times and even memorized it. You repeat it often during pangs of anxiety, trying desperately to convince your heart and mind to fall in line. If only you could make its truth sink in through sheer force of will. But relief is momentary and often downright elusive. Still, you cling to hope…
I’ve often felt this way, but willpower can’t free us from anxiety, and faith doesn’t consist of sheer psychological certainty. Relief lies in one simple phrase we tend to miss. I missed it for years. Then, someone pointed out the obvious, and everything changed. Maybe it will change things for you.
Consider that the Bible’s original manuscripts do not contain chapters and verses. Those numbers were inserted later for easier reference. With that in mind, turn your bible to the verse and reread it. But this time, go back one more sentence. What do you see?
The Lord is near. Let that reality wash over you.
We tend to disconnect these verses, but what if that sentence is meant to urge us in verse 5 as much as it is meant to comfort us in verse 6?
God never expected us to resist worry on our own. Instead, we can rest in His closeness for our ultimate security. If we believe in His goodness, sovereignty, and infinite wisdom, we can trust Him no matter what we go through.
This doesn’t mean we’ll never feel fear or anxiety again; it means we have a new focus. His presence takes the pressure off our own ability. His nearness lifts the weight from burdened hearts, allowing us to breathe again. And as we exhale, the truth sinks more deeply into our souls.
APPLICATION QUESTIONS:
How does this knowledge affect your anxiety?
How can it change your perspective moving forward?
How does knowledge of God’s nearness comfort you?
What attributes of His character help you trust Him?
PRAYER:
Lord, I don’t want to worry, but I can’t seem to stop the anxiety. Please help me to rest in Your nearness. I may not always understand what You’re doing, but I know You are trustworthy. Your character gives me confidence and assurance, no matter what I may face. I believe you ultimately work things for my good and Your glory. Because of this, please help me cast my burdens at Your feet to experience the peace that only You can give.
