Love God Greatly-Fear & AnxietySample

READ: Psalm 55:4-5, Psalm 94:19

SOAP: Psalm 94:19    

The National Institute of Mental Health states that chronic stress can negatively affect several areas including your immune, digestive, nervous, and reproductive systems. People who experience long-term stress may experience more frequent illness or pain. 

David, the king known to be a man after God’s own heart, was not immune from anxiety. The anointed king spent years running from King Saul and hiding in caves because his life was threatened. David had done nothing to deserve Saul’s jealousy or aggression. He was the victim of Saul’s own sinfulness. However, even in David’s darkest moments, he looked to God for his joy and his strength. 

What made David a man after God’s heart was his ability to prioritize his relationship with God above all else. We learn from David that we cannot escape times of fear. In those times, we can look to God to be our comfort and joy. God will walk with us in our times of trouble.

Sometimes, life throws curveballs that are unexpected. Perhaps these circumstances arise not from our own planning or purposing. In these times, there can be physical, emotional, and spiritual pain. But we serve a Savior who took the pain for us and who wants to share our burdens. We have a Heavenly Father who consoles us and brings us joy when we are anguished and overwhelmed.

Father God, thank You that You are my comfort and joy. On the days when I am overwhelmed, help carry my pain for me. When I am weak, be my strength. When I have no words, intercede on my behalf. Help me forgive those who have hurt me and help me recognize the times when I have hurt others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.