Before dawn, I sat on the couch in my quiet, empty nest. Lights low, eyes closed, coffee mug warming my hands. I listened to the birds chirp, rousing spring from winter’s chill. My intent was to center in on God’s presence and begin my day in peace.
Then my head got loud.
You know how it goes. One thought leads to another and instead of simply easing into the day and aligning your plans, the whole week’s to-do list floods your mind.
The to-do ramping up my brain that morning was a conversation with my publisher about extending my book deadline. By conversation, I mean I needed to send her an email. But, my mind rehearsed it all.
I imagined emails and a phone call and all kinds of words and judgy thoughts from my editor (who already told me if I need an extension, just ask) and BOOM. In a matter of seconds—I felt it.
Racing heart, tight chest, pulse pounding my temples. Sound familiar?
That’s our cue to take a deep breath and arrest our thoughts. When we interrupt over-thinking, we make room for healthy, rational, God-directed thoughts to trickle in.
This is what God’s Spirit spoke to mine: Ssshhh … Yes, this is an important item on your to-do list. But, it’s just a simple email. And not for today. It can wait. You are exhausted and today has enough.
Jesus realigns our self-talk.
And we find wisdom in my Jesus Calling devotional:
Bring Me your weakness, and receive My Peace. Accept yourself and your circumstances just as they are, remembering that I am sovereign over everything. Do not wear yourself out with analyzing and planning. Instead, let thankfulness and trust be your guides through this day; they will keep you close to Me … You will cease to notice how weak or strong you feel because you will be focusing on Me. The best way to get through this day is step by step with Me.”*
Jesus awakens the strong, peaceful Warrior in us.
Because God did not give us a “spirit of fear or timidity but of power, love, and a sound mind.” ~ 2 Timothy 1:7
~ God, we are grateful for your constant Presence. When busy days and sleepless nights overwhelm us, remind us to raise our thoughts above our emotions and our circumstances. We thank you. We trust you. In Jesus’ beautiful and powerful name, we pray.
*Page 37, Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence, Sarah Young
You are defiantly a true blessing to anyone that reads your words, It is even better since I have known you pretty much all my life. You have grown into such a beautiful gift from God, and you shine as a gift to us (me) all. I can hear you talk as if you are reading to me. I love you!
Carol! It’s so good to hear from you. My heart is full. Thank you for your beautiful words. I pray each day you walk in God’s Peace. Thank you so much, ‘me’ friend😊 I love you! 💕☮
Carol! Wow I’m so late in replying to this. Thank you for your friendship and kind words. You are a gift from God to me… a shiny one! Let’s keep shining and changing our little corner of the world. Love you, girl.
Yes Robin, I am comforted by your posts. I admire the way you obey even if feels strange, you’re a great example to me. I’ll pray for you and I hope you will pray for me too. 😊❤️🙏🏻
Hi Jackie, I’m so glad you are comforted. And your words inspire me. We really do need each other these days, don’t we? Thank you so much for praying for me. I will definitely pray for you too. 💕☮