
From the Nest: Think Small
And I’m not saying there isn’t merit to all of those things. But over the past week, I’ve found myself retreating. I want to be informed, I want to know how and what to pray specifically for. I want to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
But, this week, as I tried to become informed, look for specific ways that I can pray, and think of what I can do…it was crushing. I simply am not designed to be able to carry the weight of the world. I don’t believe that I am meant to live a life of sadness and overwhelming despair, even though the world looks a lot like that right now.
I don’t think you are either.
Overwhelmed, hurting, frustrated, even angry. Discouraged and disheartened by the many, MANY things that are so far out of any control we could ever gather. Distraught, scared, and anxious. Heartbroken.
A quick Google search and the KJV search results posted by Edison Williams tell us this about what God says:
- Fear not: Found 62 times
- Fear ye not: Found 8 times
- Be not afraid: Found 26 times
- Not be afraid: Found 13 times
- Nor be afraid: Found 2 times
- Neither be afraid: Found 3 times
- Dread not: Found 2 times
- Neither fear: Found 2 times
- Neither/nor/not be dismayed: Found 10 times
I find that sometimes I need my reminders in the positive too. Such as:
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks.” I Thessalonians 5:16-17
“The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will rejoice over you with singing and quiet you with His love.” Zephaniah 3:17
And where does that leave my response? What even is the right response, in light of the hundreds of ways God tells us to be anxious for nothing, to rejoice in all things, and to choose joy?
But if I may, I’d love to share the quiet response of my heart this week…or past 18 months.
Can I control everything that happens, even within the walls of my home? Absolutely not. But I am convinced, even passionate, about this: I cannot change the world. However, I have an eternal responsibility to lead those right around me in grace, hope, joy, and faith in an all-knowing, un-changing God.
Think small about the circle where you actually can make a difference. The circle where you can have a great influence. The circle where you are the gatekeeper.
Much love from our nest.
Blessings,
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Blessings,