This passage really spoke to me today as a leader. There is so much hope here to keep us going full of encouragement. We need to be humble leaders, not proud and arrogant. God has gifted us to lead, so we should lead, not be interested in all the attention.
I know for me personally, I am uncomfortable when somebody compliments me. I need to get better at accepting kind words while still honoring God with my humility. For me, it’s a hard distinction. I’m sure I’m not alone.
What’s even harder is to follow the counsel of verse 7, “give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” Why is it hard to give our worries to God? Who better to take care of them? For some reason, we hold on to them as if our wasting time thinking about them will help the situation. Most times, it’s the opposite. How much life are we missing out on while we’re busy dwelling on something out of our control?
Let go and let God.
I am going through a transition right now that is taking my thinking time. I don’t want to say “worrying,” but it’s super close to that. In my case, we have a big decision to make, and I want to make sure we are where God wants us to be. I tend to overthink things, so I feel I’m being tested a little here, which is a good thing. I need to just trust, embracing it for what it is and quit trying to second guess everything.
Are you with me? Have you ever done that?
I like the visual of imagining the evil one as a lion prowling around ready to devour. While I’ve never seen a lion in “prowl” mode, I can only imagine it’s terrifying. Avoiding being trampled and attacked, we need to stand strong in the faith. We can do that when we call upon the power of God. On our own, I’m not sure any of us are strong enough to withstand the battle.
One thing is for certain– no matter how much we are battered and pushed around in this world, God is there. We hear the promise “he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.” That is reassuring indeed. We should all place our hope in the Lord.
What’s holding you back today? Are you holding on to a worry you need to let go of? Are you feeling like you’ve been trampled just one too many times? Reread this passage and give thanks.
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me when I worry about things that are out of my control. Reveal to me your truth and desire for me in making this and other life decisions. I trust you as the best solution. Help me to stand bravely on my faith when challenges come. Help me to stay clear of the hungry lion prowling around waiting for my weakness. I want to be in your will and attentive to what you want from me. I want to serve you in all I say and I do. May I lead with integrity and humility. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
