Every evening, just before dark, I check on every animal and every enclosure. Coops and hutches closed, doors locked, gates secured (31 goodnight kisses) and Jethro on duty – then I can head back to the house for the night. My security efforts keep my animals safe from the foxes, coyotes, stray dogs, raccoons, opossums…and any other predator that might be interested in one of my furred or feathered babies for breakfast. I do all that I can to protect them from harm. I know they feel safe because these vulnerable prey animals are relaxed and able to sleep.
Why is it so hard for us to relax and trust God? I need to be reminded sometimes, to loosen my grip on pride and independence and invite God to lead the way so that I can rest. It is easier to trust Him when we know Him. When I catch myself struggling to release control over situations, events, even my own emotions – when I find myself anxious or worried or insecure…that is my signal to spend some time meditating on the attributes of God – reminding myself of WHO He is.
God is Jehovah, the great “I AM”. And our God, who is “I AM”, is really everything we need.
Jehovah is Elohim (strength – Gen 17:7-8). God is almighty (Gen.49:22-26). God is Adonai (master – 2 Sam. 7:18-20). God is Father (Rom. 8:15-17), Comforter (2 Cor. 1:3-4), Faithful (Ps. 89 1-8), Wise (Prov. 3:19-20), Merciful (Deut. 4:29-31), Good (Ps. 119:65-72), Peace (Judges 6:16-24), Love (1 John 4:7-10). God is Emmanuel, God with us (Mat. 1:23). And He is so much more…
With a God like this, why do I struggle for control – when I can trust Him – and sleep like a baby in His arms.
May you walk closer to Him today. Let go of fear and anxiety and trust a God who loves you, who desires to wrap His strength and mercy around you, take your fears from you, and give you peace.
“I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With Him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body will also rest secure” Psalm 16:8-9
