Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
April 8, 2022
Read Mark 4:35-41
35 Later that day, when evening came, Jesus said to them, “Let’s cross over to the other side of the lake.” 36 They left the crowd and took him in the boat just as he was. Other boats followed along. 37 Gale-force winds arose, and waves crashed against the boat so that the boat was swamped. 38 But Jesus was in the rear of the boat, sleeping on a pillow. They woke him up and said, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re drowning?” 39 He got up and gave orders to the wind, and he said to the lake, “Silence! Be still!” The wind settled down and there was a great calm. 40 Jesus asked them, “Why are you frightened? Don’t you have faith yet?” 41 Overcome with awe, they said to each other, “Who then is this? Even the wind and the sea obey him!”
Good Morning, Be still and know that I am God!
In our times of greatest turmoil may we sing in the old Gospel hymn, “When the storms of life are raging, stand by me.” All believers are promised to be free from worry, but somehow most of us continue to cling to our problems. Sometimes we even go out of our way to look for things about which to worry. We might not even be aware of our pent-up worry until we find ourselves tossing and turning in the middle of the night.
One of the storms with which I still struggle is worry. In my desire to make things better for myself and for others, I have been known to focus on the what-ifs instead of embracing the opportunities. For example, when I plan a special service, I worry as to whether anyone will come. When I let go of that what-if, my mind allows my heart to take charge and focus on serving the needs of those who come.
Isn’t it funny how our minds get in the way? As we live our lives we develop so many pre-conceived ideas that clutter our thoughts. If only we can see as God sees, and let go of our earthly notions, we will be free and happy. There is a saying, “get out of your head”, that might be helpful to remember when we start to feel the storms begin to build. When we can forget what we “know” and let God take control, we will be able to relax and embrace peace.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Let Go and Let God!
Loving and Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. You gave us the ability to think, but sometimes that gets in our way. Give us the strength to recognize those things that belong to You. Thank You! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Even when storms rage, I will cast my cares on Christ and relax.
Let Go and Let God! Pastor Liz
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