I believe strongly that prayer and scripture are two of the most
powerful tools for the Christian. Much of my writing centers
around these. But there are many times that I can identify with
the father who brought his son to Jesus in Mark 9:14-24. "I
believe, but help my unbelief."
How many of us read the Bible's precious promises and pray over
troublesome situations, just to have the fear and worry return
as soon as we're done? How much are we actually trusting God? It
is difficult to let go of the problem. We want to take it back
and try to fix it ourselves.
Here are a few suggestions that I'm working on. Maybe you will
find them helpful, also.
1. Confess your fear and lack of faith to God.
Our pastor always says that confession is the beginning of
healing. Simply tell God that you are struggling in this area.
Tell him that you have the head knowledge, but you need the
assurance in your heart. He knows our thoughts anyway. We might
as well talk it out with him.
2. Counteract fear with positive affirmations.
When the worry starts to creep back in, don't just lie down and
take it. Fight back. Say to yourself - even out loud - "I've
given this problem to God. He is able and willing to take care
of it. He is already working on the answer, even if I can't see
it yet. It he can create the universe, and raise Jesus from the
dead, this is easy for him!"
Then start thanking him for loving you, for caring, for his
power and wisdom. Thank him for the answer. Start picturing the
prayer being answered in your mind.
3. Think of all the times God has answered prayer and has solved
your problems.
This is where it is helpful to have a prayer notebook or
journal. Jot down prayer needs and requests and date them. As
time goes by, you can look back over your notebook and witness
God's mighty power in your life. When you see how he has brought
you through something, it gives you more faith for the next time.
4. Realize that this is a growing process.
Don't get too down on yourself if you are weak in the faith
area. Don't spend energy on self-condemnation. None of us have
arrived spiritually. We are all growing up in Christ at
different rates of speed. The important thing is that we are
growing. Hopefully, you have more faith than you did a year ago.
If not, pray for it. The Lord wants to give it to you.
Isaiah 26:3 says that God will keep us in perfect peace if our
mind is stayed on him, because we trust him. Ask God to give you
the ability to keep your mind anchored and focused on him
instead of the problem. Then you'll start to experience his
perfect peace that passes all understanding.
By Jessica Gerald http://www.ladiesministryonline.com
About the author:
Ladies Ministry Online http://www.ladiesministryonline.com
"Encouraging and Strengthening the Christian Home"
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