In the last post, we identified “what-if’s” that feed a parent’s fears and anxiety. We identified three steps to manage momentary and long-term fears.
1. Stop.
2. Breathe.
3. Listen to God.
You can read about the first two principles here.
Let’s get to the third principle: Listening to God
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In the land of “What-if’s,” Christian parents have this assurance:
God already knows..
…….your fears.
…….the needs of your child.
…….what’s best for the situation.
…….the outcome.
This is your hope and promise when your life’s in the hands of the Living God.
When you stop and breathe, the Holy Spirit rests your mind.
If you let Him.
He equips you with peace until you’re sure of “what’s next.”
Sometimes, God seems silent while waiting for “what’s next.” But you’ll hear Him in prayer, through His word, a song, a comment from a friend, or from a Christian speaker.
When the Holy Spirit drowns out other noise, you go to Him more when the “what-if’s” paralyze you.
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So, how do you listen to God with the “What-if’?”
1. Give your fears to Him. Talk to Him. Lay everything out. Place your child in His hands.
2. Pray scripture and cling to it’s promises. One of my favorite scriptures for unknown outcomes is Philippians 4:19,”My God will supply all of your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Be in God’s word. Ask Him for truth. Pray His word.
It’s powerful.
3. In faith, believe. It’s one thing to read the Bible and pray scripture.
It’s another thing to believe it.
Believing faith is stepping out of the boat, keeping your eyes on Jesus, trusting that He’ll do what He says He’ll do.
It’s believing He is who He says He is.
It’s that simple.
And it’s that difficult.
Each time you do it, your belief will increase; your trust in God’s sovereignty will grow.
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I don’t speak from head-knowledge. I live these things, trying every day to stop the fear. Stop the reactions. Stop the lies that mess with my head.
Breathing truth instead of my emotions.
Listening to God when I don’t know the future.
Hearing His truth and believing what He’s told me.
I’m practicing it this week.
On my knees in prayer and worship. The only place of truth and peace.
What about you?
What’s hard about listening? Is your challenge believing God’s working?
Or does it start with a relationship with Christ? Do you have a personal relationship with Him? If not, would you like to start that with him today? If so, email me at yoderbl@gmail.com and I can tell you how you can have a personal relationship with the Living God.
Stop. Breathe. Listen.
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