Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down… Prov. 12:25 ESV
Fools show their annoyance at once… Prov. 12:16 NIV
“Love is not… irritable” 1 Cor. 13:4-5 ESV
“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” Psalm 46:10 NLT
Heavenly Father, it’s never a good thing when my angst about politics (or anything, or anyone) is more pronounced than my awe of you. It never bodes well when what happens “on the Hill” impacts my spirit more than what’s happening in the courts of heaven.
Irritable heart syndrome never takes me where I want to go. I get shorter with people and quicker with my reactions. I offer more opinions and less prayer; I get less patient and more annoyed, more short-fused and less at rest. Instead of being still and knowing you are God, I get antsy and wish that I were.
Father, thank you that gospel-spirituality doesn’t make us less human, but more so. To be disappointed, concerned, and angry isn’t sinful; it’s to be alive. As your beloved children, we’re not to be passive, disengaged, or numb; but there are always better, healthier, and more redemptive ways to respond to “stuff.”
SO, on this Thursday in May, I choose to cast my cares on you, set my gaze on Jesus, and surrender my heart to your Spirit. By staying annoyed and anxious, I won’t add one day to my life, effect one change in the world, or be helpful to a single person. May your peace rule in my heart and your truth renew my thinking, your grace shape my every word, and your mercies be extended by my hands.
You WILL be honored by every nation, one Day, and exalted throughout the world. The knowledge of your glory will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. That’s not “pie in the sky,” it’s good news for our hearts. Free us to live and love to your glory, all day long today. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ wonderful and merciful name.
