The musings of my heart on my way back from work today brought me to this gentle instruction. The word comes right in the midst of a raging storm of anxiety brought about by varying issues and challenges that almost very effortless kept peace at bay. Light at the end of a tunnel, joy in the morning after a night of weeping – those most certainly come to bear better meanings at such a time. I’m not sure it’s as bad as you’d think, however, circumstances we face have a way to making it feel like we are faced with the end of the world many a times. And so one might relate better when such a reminder of a command not to be anxious hits hard to settle the fuming dust. It’s quite interesting how a statement changes so much.

This command, as I have just come to understand, is very much embedded in faith. It is only natural that the human heart stresses, worries and is very actively in search of a solution to challenges. The heart just wants a solution without much care to details of repercussions.

Still, and more than ever, I’m very convinced that there is no situation that is beyond God’s control. And He not only encourages, but also commands that we not feel restless over anything. Listening to Mike Pilavachi this morning brought in more refreshing insight to how much difference it makes when we choose to look up to him, obey and trust Him through circumstances than when we try to do it by ourselves.

Mary approached Jesus seeking for help when wine was finished at the wedding in Canaan. Jesus responded in a seemingly uninterested manner. However, Mary simply looked at the servants and told them, “Do whatever he tells you to do.” The servants firmly took heed to her words when on several occasions, Jesus’ instructions seemed very illogical – fill a pot of wine with water, take a glass of that water to the master of occasion. It was in these simple moments of obedience that the miracle occurred. There was a choice, do as Jesus says or wear yourself out stressing how to get wine. Continue reading →

I was at a funeral ceremony of a church member recently. It was the first of such ceremonies I had attended for a very long time. And like every funeral, it was a really sad occasion. Just about when the event commenced I was led with others to sympathize with the bereaved. Though she wasn’t crying, it was still evident she was making considerable efforts to stay strong, hold the tears and avoid the sympathetic looks from all angles channeled in her direction. Some of those comforting her, especially family members were also not too far from the same state of bemoaning, though also trying to be strong for her. At one time or the other, one would step out to a corner and allow the tears ease their way out. It was indeed sad. 

The climax of my emotions were actually when the ceremony started proper. Closing my eyes to talk to God was a moment that became unusually very decisive and significant. Here I was, in the midst of others of course, with my head bowed, eyes closed and led to thank God for life, provision, protection and everything else in a situation that brings to question a lot of all that. A lot of the questions the carnal minds would raise crossed my mind and right there in the blink of seconds I had to decide if to ask them, or if to speak faith. 

The decision was made easily when the focus shifted from one single life we lost to the many gathered around that God has sustained and kept. I was gently reminded that God is light, and in Him no shadow of turning at all. Again I was reminded of His very many goodness and great promises and assurance, that He has planned and wants only the best for every one of His children. And there was also reminded that if anything was ever lost, stolen or broken, it’s only the work of the devil. 

And then faith rose.  Continue reading →