Looking back over the years, I note the number of times when I have felt ill, weak, and off balance. As I write, my health speaks to me of pain and frustration. I feel as if I just can't do it. I don't trust my own ability to get the job done. Have you ever been in that quandary? Be of good cheer! God's strength is with us constantly; we just need to trust Him. I recall one of my favourite verses:

Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV)

Paul wrote this when he was in prison in Philippi around 60 AD. He is an inspiration to all of us. I am not in prison — but wait: maybe the problem is that I am in the prison of my own mind, feeling sorry for myself. Self-pity can turn us away from God and make us feel useless. We also need to read this passage:

Isaiah 40:28b,29,31a – The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. (NKJV)

That hits home as I read and re-read the verses and realize that I need to turn all my worries over to God. He never grows faint or weary like we do. As we surrender to Him, His peace fills our souls with courage and strength. Another verse also speaks to me:

Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (NKJV)

Fear of failure because we do not have the strength is one of the worst feelings that we have to contend with. I read somewhere that there are 25 verses in Scripture about strength that comes from God. I need to surrender to the Lord of my life and not be afraid of anything. It is all in the hands of our God.

It is a very human reaction when we stand all alone worrying. We need to realize fully that our strength comes from God, not from our bodies. Be of good cheer! The Lord loves you and me, and He cares deeply for us. Remember that you and I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens us today and always. Take a deep sigh and relax. Be at peace.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we open our souls to You, recognizing our need for Your strength and peace. As we bow before You, we thank You for Your great gift of love. Thank You for Your promises fulfilled in Jesus that You will be with us, strengthening us so that we can do all things set before us. Through Christ, we pray. Amen.

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