Still Your Restless Soul

Trade Anxiety for Peace in Chaotic Times

I don’t know who dusted off Big Ben on January 1st but I’ve been feeling the pressure to figure everything out before the month ends. And because I know we have more in common than we are different, I am 100% certain, I’m not the only one vision boarding, researching, comparing and planning at a rate that might not be healthy. Even if we never meet in person, please know I pray for all you of privately but there are times when I feel called to use this little corner of the internet to pray for you (ahem, us) publicly. I hope you’ll allow me to do so right now…

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Dear Heavenly Father,

I ask that you lift the burdens and weights of perfection off our shoulders. Lord, you have planted seeds of greatness inside of us but just like the farmer, we must be faithful and committed to watering those seeds. Not all will sprout and reap fruit at the same rate, God, and that is all a part of your divine plan. Grant us diligence to tend to our own gardens instead of comparing our early stage seeds to the fully grown fruits of those around us.

Lord, you tell us in Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

We sometimes assume this passage to mean physical rest only but, Lord, expand our perspective so we can see this as an invitation to calm our restless minds and ease our anxious spirits. With you, God, the same time that feels like a foe can be our friend. We don’t have to know the whole plan, God. Many of us would be overwhelmed, if we did. Help us relinquish control, trusting you to guide all of our steps but specifically the next one. Grant us the courage to be obedient when clarity does come our way. And in the meantime, shift our focus away from goals and accomplishments towards having a deeper relationship with you.

As we keep our eyes on you, we ask that you will ready our hearts and realign our motives so that when it is time to step, we can do so swiftly, confidently, joyfully and always to the glory of your name.

Amen.

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Journal Prompts

Thank you for letting me pray with and for you. Here are 3 journal prompts to help you reflect further as you go through your week:

1. How can I shift my focus today from others' achievements to my own growth opportunities?

2. What are 3 things I can actively appreciate about my life's current season?

3. How could I encourage someone else who feels their modest efforts don't measure up?

Have a beautiful week!