October 20, 2024

Bob Maas
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7
The more I learn of the reality of God’s Kingdom, the more I realize that I am already living in paradise when abiding in His presence. No matter where I go, who I am with, what I am doing, or how I am doing it, God never leaves or forsakes me.
That certainty makes every problem, setback, difficulty, or obstacle that comes into my life an adventure. My first responsibility is always to get God’s perspective on the situation and get my instructions on what I need to do or say.
Why is that so important? His peace, which surpasses all understanding, takes over and liberates me from all fear, anxiety, panic, and apprehension. God controls everything and makes what appears to be hostile work for good.
Nothing surprises Him. When my ego gets completely out of the way, everything falls into its proper place. The natural characteristics of His Kingdom are righteousness, peace, and joy, and nothing can take that away from me except doubt.
When unfavorable situations happen, and I am distracted from His faithfulness, pessimistic thoughts dominate my mind, and I begin to imagine all sorts of terrible scenarios. All I have to do is return to the awareness of His presence and reflect on the cross where He demonstrated His love. There, my ego lost its power over me and was destroyed.
I continually thank God for my victory through the resurrected life of my Lord Jesus Christ.