Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 NRSV
At times, we may struggle with anxiety–that unease that comes from the uncertainty of the future outcome. For example, we recall the public health scare a short while ago. (Remember when liquor stores were found essential, and places of worship were not.) Our isolation and a steady stream of daily statistics fueled through the media caused fear and worry about many things we had little control over–scarcity of necessities, our financial state, etc.
However, we know intimately the one who has control over everything, and he cares for us. Secure in that knowledge; we can turn over all our anxieties to him. We may still wonder how he will answer, but we can be sure he will.
Knowing this, why do we still hold onto our anxieties? First, let's look back at the previous verse.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time.
The problem often is our ability to let go. Although we know we have no control over the outcome, we prefer to claim ownership rather than handing it over to the one who can, God.
Or sometimes, we may halfheartedly hand it over, then become discontent when the timing isn't what we expect, or the outcome is what we desire. We're a pretty fickle bunch. Thank God for his long-suffering patience.
When we pray, let's come humbly before God and turn it all over wholly and faithfully.
Prayer answering God, we come before you now with all our worries, fears, and anxieties. We are tired of carrying these things and confess they are outside our control but not yours. We know you love us and are confident you will answer according to your will. Please help us to leave everything before you and not pick it up again but remain persistent in our faith. We pray this in the name of your Son Jesus. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
