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WORRY LESS
PRAY
MORE
 Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2023 with funding from
Kahle/Austin Foundation

https://archive.org/details/worrylesspraymor0000malt
WORRY LESS
PRAY
MORE
A Woman’s Devotional Guide
to Anxiety-Free Living

Donna K. Maltese

BARBOUR BOOKS
An Imprint of Barbour Publishing, Inc.
© 2019 by Barbour Publishing, Inc.

ISBN 978-1-68322-861-5

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Scripture quotations marked ampc are taken from the Amplified® Bible, Classic Edition ©
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 INTRODUCTION
hen we look at our troubles from our perspective,
we're filled with dread and anxiety for they seem
insurmountable. That’s why—and when—we need to hand
them over to God. We know He has all the power, strength,
and wisdom to handle our worries for us. He'll find a solution
we've never considered. He'll transform our situation into
something good.
To remind us to worry less and pray more, the apostle
Paul wrote:

Dont fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions

and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God
know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of Gods
wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come
and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when
Christ displaces worry at the center ofyour life.
PHILIPPIANS 4:6—7 MSG

Within this book, today’s woman will find 180 readings

and scripture passages to help her live a worry-free life while
building up her prayer power as she learns to commit her
concerns to the Master problem-solver.
Enter here to find your way to God’s calming peace and
bountiful provision.
 TWENTY-FOUR-HOUR SECURITY
Ne

Where can I find help? My help comes from the Lorb,

the maker of heaven and earth... . The LorD guards
you from every evil. He guards your life. The Lorp
guards you as you come and go, now and forever.
PsaLM 121:1-2, 7-8 Gw

magine having a bodyguard with you twenty-four hours a

day. One who is all-powerful, all-knowing. He can see the
future, the present, and the past. He never sleeps or takes
catnaps. He blocks the sun from scorching your skin during
the day and keeps the moon’s shadows from tripping you up
at night. He tightly grips your hand as you walk, shielding
you from all harm.
You ave such a bodyguard. His name is God. He’s all
the help and protection you need. So why worry? With the
creator of the universe guarding you, surrounding you with
His magnificent presence and power, nothing can touch
you—in heaven or on the earth!

I rest easy, Lord, knowing You are always with me, keeping me
from harm. Thank You for your vigilance and protection!
 CULTIVATING CALM
tee
Ive cultivated a quiet heart. Like a baby content
in its mother’s arms, my soul is a baby content.
PsaLM 131:2 MSG

salm 131 was written by King David, who trained himself

tis trust God, to put all things in His hands. David saw
God as a stable, ever-present, and powerful force for good
and right in his life.
That’s why David could say, “My soul waits calmly for
God alone” (Psalm 62:1 Gw). He looked for no other out-
side influence—no people, strong horses, tools, weapons, or
money—to rescue him. To firm that up within himself, he'd
talk to his soul: “Wait calmly for God alone, my soul, because
my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my
savior—my stronghold. I cannot be shaken” (Psalm 62:5—6 cw).
You too can cultivate a quiet heart and calm soul by
making God your sole rock and stronghold. Pray to Him
and remind yourself that He alone can—and will—handle
everything that comes your way.

You alone, Lord, are my Savior.

Be calm, my soul. Be content, my heart.
 GIVING—AND GETTING—PLEASURE
Ie
Be energetic in your life ofsalvation... . That energy is
Gods energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing
and working at what will give him the most pleasure.
PHILIPPIANS 2:12—13 MSG

ae can sap all your energy, using up all your strength

and making you too bleary-eyed to see God's blessings,
too weak to do what God’s called you to do!
Dear woman, God didn’t save you so that you could
spend your life half asleep. He wants you to be strong, steady,
and stable. So tell God all your concerns, all your imaginary
what-ifs. Dig deep within, recognizing God's presence
energizing you and giving you the power to let your worries
melt away. Then open your eyes, and you'll see all the great
tasks and blessings God has put before you.
The more you let go of your problems and pick up God’s
power, the more you'll please both God and yourself.

Im digging deep, Lord, freeing my frets and

experiencing Your awesome energy! What pleasure!
 PEACE FROM THE INSIDE OUT
ae
ry

“Your threat means nothing to us. Ifyou throw us in the fire,

the God we serve can rescue us... . But even ifhe doesnit,
it wouldnt make a bit of difference, O king. We still wouldn't
serve your gods or worship the gold statue you set up.”
DANIEL 3:16—18 MSG

hadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to worship

King Nebuchadnezzar’s idol, so he threatened to throw
them into a furnace. But the three men refused to lose their
peace. They knew God could rescue them. And if He didn't,
so be it.
Warren Wiersbe wrote, “We're prone to want God
to change our circumstances, but He wants to change our
character. We think peace comes from the outside in, but it
comes from the inside out.”
No matter what your circumstances, don’t let your fears
and anxieties get the best of you. Keep your faith and your
peace. You may have to walk through fire, but Christ will be
there with you, and you'll come out unharmed (see Daniel
3:25-29)!

Lord, here I am, claiming and holding on to Your eternal peace.

 BLESSINGS TO GOD'S BELOVED
a
Except the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain
who build it... . It is vain for you to rise up early,
to take rest late, to eat the bread of [anxious] toil—
for He gives [blessings] to His beloved in sleep.
PsaLM 127:1—2 AMPC

od wants His daughters to be useful. But without God's

blessing on your work or ministry, not only will all your
efforts be useless, but you will find yourself exhausted, eating
the “bread of [anxious] toil,” “work[ing] your worried fingers
to the bone” (Msc).
To live and work a worry-free life, ask God how Hed
like you to use the gifts with which you've been blessed. Then
follow where He leads, taking on the job or ministry He's
directing you toward.
Once you're in the space God has provided, invite Him
into every moment of your workday. Put your efforts and
their outcome in His hands. Then you'll have the peace and
rest God is so willing and able to give those He loves.

I'm resting in You, Lord, my provider, my love.

10
 NOTHING TOO HARD FOR GOD
Me

Alas, Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and
the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm!
There is nothing too hard or too wonderful for You.
JEREMIAH 32:17 AMPC

ometimes the many things going right in your life and

°)your world are overshadowed by that one thing that’s
going wrong. You begin to question whether God has the
power or know-how to change things for the better or get you
out of whatever mess youre in.
That’s when you need to begin focusing on the right
things. Trust that along with all the wonderful things God
has done, is doing, and will do, He will turn any mishaps,
errors, or darkness into something right, correct, and light.
You see, there is nothing too hard for God. He can do
anything, so don’t panic. Simply pray, and leave everything in
God’s mighty hands.

Thank You, God, for reminding me nothing is too

hard for You. Im leaving everything up to You,
knowing Youll put things right.
 NEVER SHAKEN
8
Those who trust the Lorb are like Mount Zion, which can never
be shaken. It remains firm forever. As the mountains surround
Jerusalem, so the LorD surrounds his people now and forever.
PsaLM 125:I-2 GW

ometimes worry can lead you to literally shake in your

boots, but God wants you to know that if you trust in
Him, you will mever be shaken. You can stand firm, leaning
on His power, confidently hoping He has a solution, one
youve never even thought of—or, even better, that He’s
already taking care of things for you!
When you put all your trust, hope, and confidence
in the God who actually created the mountains, you begin
to feel His awesome presence surrounding you. You begin
remembering all the things He has done for you and all the
others who've gone before you. Knowing this, you need no
longer shake in your boots but walk sure and barefooted on
the highest mountains (see Psalm 18:33).

I'm trusting in You, Lord. In doing so, I feel Your power and
presence surrounding me, enabling me to walk strong in You.
 A MATTER OF COURSE
Ne
“So dont worry and dont keep saying, ‘What shall we eat,
what shall we drink or what shall we wear?!’... [YJour
Heavenly Father knows that you need them all. Set your
heart on the kingdom and his goodness, and all these
things will come to you as a matter of course.”
MatTHEW 6:3 1-33 PHILLIPS

he apostle Paul, the author of Philippians, wasn’t the

first one to come up with the idea of praying instead of
worrying (see Philippians 4:6—7). It was Jesus!
First, Jesus taught His followers how to pray. Then He
said, “Stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried)
about your life” (Matthew 6:25 ampc). Do not be worried
about what you'll eat, drink, or wear, for doing so will not
make things any better. Besides, your God knows what you
need.
Your duty is to seek God more than anything—or
anyone—else, knowing and trusting that if you will but ask,
you will receive!

Help me, Lord, to finda way to put my concerns in

Your hands, knowing Youll find a way when I see no way!
 A STUDENT OF PRAYER
azo
Then He was praying in a certain place; and when He stopped,
one ofHis disciples said to Him, Lord, teach us to pray... .
And He said to them, When you pray, say: Our Father
Who is in heaven, hallowed be Your name.
LUKE I1:I—2 AMPC

he disciples had witnessed the power, joy, and wisdom

Jesus exuded in their presence. They'd also seen Him go
off alone to pray. So one asked Him, “Lord, teach us to pray.”
Through the example of Jesus and His disciples, it’s clear
that prayer is the antidote to worry. For the stronger you are
in prayer, the less your concerns will weigh you down.
Today, come to Jesus as a willing and worthy student.
Ask Him to teach you how to weaken your worries and build
up your faith as you learn to pray with power. Start with
the basics. Pray this “Disciples’ Prayer” (see Luke 11:2-4),
knowing Abba God is longing to hear what you have to say.

Abba God, hear my prayer.

“Our Father Who is in heaven... .”
 THAT SECRET PLACE
Me

When you pray, go into your [most] private room, and,

closing the door, pray to your Father, Who is in secret; and
your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open.
MatTTHEW 6:6 AMPC

Wwe living in today’s world are busy, and chances

are, youre no exception. There are kids to get on the
bus, socks to find for the husband, emails to send, projects
to finish, meals to plan, grandkids to watch, Sunday school
lessons to review, dogs to walk, and news to catch up on. Yet
to be focused enough to do all these things well, you need to
unload some of the clutter crowding your mind.
Jesus tells you to detach from the world without and the
thoughts within—to find that secret chamber He’s opened
just for you where you can have a spirit-to-Spirit talk with
God, shutting yourself away from the world and shutting
yourself in with Him.
Find that place and you'll find your reward—the focus to
do and the peace to be!

Father, help me find that secret place

where it’s just You and me.
 GIVING GOD THE DETAILS
Vs

Hezekiah took the letters from the messengers, read them,

and went to the Lorp’s temple. He spread them out
in front of the Lorb and prayed to the Lorb.
2 KINGS 19:14-15 GW

ezekiah was the king of Judah. Here we find he’s received

letters filled with threats of attack from Sennacherib of
Assyria. After reading the letters, Hezekiah didn't panic but
went to the temple of the Lord. There he spread out the
threatening messages before the Lord and prayed, acknow-
ledging God as the supreme Ruler and Creator of heaven
and earth. He asked God to listen to him, to open His ears
and hear Sennacherib’s message, and to come to the rescue of
His people. And God did.
When you have a massive problem, don’t panic. Go to
God, and then lay all the details before Him. Ask Him to
save you. And He will.

Lord ofall, here's what’ happening. .... in resolved not to

panic but come to You, for in You alone will I find help.
 WORTHY THOUGHTS
6
Keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise:
things that are true, honorable, fair, pure,
acceptable, or commendable.
PHILIPPIANS 4:8 Gw

ts easy to get caught up in the bad news that surrounds

|us: the reports and rumors of wars, school shootings, child
and spousal abuse, drug addiction, crime, terrorism, and
political strife, to name just a few. It’s enough to make you
never come out from underneath the covers. Either that or
you find yourself forever fretting about people and situations
over which you have no or little control. Yet you can’t help
but be concerned.
So take those news items to God. Ask Him to be in the
situation, to help the victims, to bring justice. Then leave it
all in His hands, knowing He can handle anything—and
everything. Then look for some good news stories—they are
out there! And fix your focus on those things, which are good,
honorable, and commendable, praising God in the process.

Once I give my concerns to You, Lord, help me fix my thoughts

on those things that deserve my praise and focus! Amen.
 REASSURANCE TIMES THREE
J5e
You know when I leave and when I get back; Im never out
ofyour sight... . I look behind me and youre there, then
up ahead and youve there, too—your reassuring presence,
coming and going. This is too much, too wonderful.
PSALM 139:2, 5—6 MSG

eople come and go out of your life, but there is a three-in-

la person who remains: God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Wherever you go, God sees you. Whatever you're expe-
riencing, Jesus is familiar with it. Whatever comfort you
need, the Spirit is there, giving it to you. When you believe
these things, when you have faith in God’s presence always
with you—before and behind you—all worries fade away.
God is your reassuring Protector, Jesus your undying Friend,
and the Spirit your willing Helper.
Don’t worry. Pray to these three supernatural powers
who are ready, willing, and able to help you along the way.

My worries fade, Lord, and vanish into nothing

when I acknowledge Your presence, Jesus’ love,
and the Spirits power. Be with me now.
 THE ONE WHO COMFORTS
4@
‘L, yes I, am the one who comforts you. So why are you afraid
of mere humans, who wither like the grass and disappear?”
IsAIAH 51:12 NLT

od understands you like no other. He knows your worries,

fears, hopes, dreams, and passions. He sees what’s going
on in your life. That’s why Father God wants to fill you, His
daughter, with assurance that He alone is the one who can
and does comfort you. He is all-powerful and eternal, unlike
humans, who'll one day fade away, wither like the grass, and
become as nothing.
So when you are worried or fearful about what some
person might say or do next, draw close to the “one who
comforts you” like no other. Lean into God, His power,
promises, and protection. Remind yourself of who He is and
the solace He and His presence provide. Allow His love and
light to pour over you as you pray.

Abba God, pour Your love, light, and protection over me.
In You I find the comfort that melts all fears and worries.
 TRUSTING THE MASTER PLANNER
ie
Blessed is the person who places his confidence in the Lorp and
does not rely on arrogant people or those who follow lies. You
have done many miraculous things, O LorD my God. You have
made many wonderful plans for us. No one compares to you!
PSALM 40:4-5 GW

ouve made a few plans, but it feels like it’s taking forever
for things to fall into place. You begin listening to others,
finding yourself tempted to follow their advice. Before you
know it, you're worrying, wringing your hands, wondering if
you should take another track or give up your plans altogether.
If you’re not sure youre on the right path, share your
concerns with the Master Planner. Place all your trust in Him,
relying on His wisdom, for He’s already done some marvelous
things in your life. If your plans are aligned with His will and
Word, you can rest easy. He'll give you the patience and peace
you need to see things through—in His time and way.

You have many wonderful

plans for me, Lord.
Im trusting Youll help me see them through.

20
 INSIDE THE CIRCLE OF PROTECTION
bs @
Gop met me more than halfway, he freed me from my
anxious fears... . When I was desperate, I called out,
and GoD got me out of a tight spot. GoD’ angel sets
up a circle ofprotection around us while we pray.
PSALM 34:4, 6-7 MSG

hen youre weighed down by anxiety, God is ready to

meet you “more than halfway.” All you need to do is
cry out to Him; tell Him everything that’s on your mind, all
your fears, worries, and troubles. “Never hide your feelings
from him” (Psalm 34:5 msc). Although God knows what
youre fearing and worrying about and all the troubles in your
midst, He wants you to voice them, to unload them upon
Him, to get them out of your system.
Once you do, God will rescue you and fill you with His
peace; His angel will set up a protective circle around you
until you are able to rise up again in strength. Don't neglect
the privilege and benefit of prayer. It’s a life saver.

Heres whats happening, Lord... . Save me!

 THE FATHER WHO LISTENS
ss
I love the Lorp because he hears my voice and my
prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen,
I will pray as long as I have breath!
PSALM 116:1—2 NLT

istening has almost become a lost art among humanoids.

But there’s one person who will always pay attention to
what you have to say: God—a supernatural, all-powerful
Father who actually bends down to listen to what he His
daughter, is saying!
Fix firmly in your mind that image of God bending down
to you. See yourself as the woman-child that so desperately
needs her Father to hear all her woes and worries. Why like
a child? Because “the Lorn protects those of childlike faith”
(Psalm 116:6 Nir).
When you put all your trust in Father God, when you
tell Him that you believe in Him and are deeply troubled
(see Psalm 116:10), you'll come away free from fretting, and
your soul will “be at rest again” (Psalm 116:7 NIT).

Lord, I want the soul rest only You can supply. Listen. . . .
 THE BIG ASK
M6 .

‘Ask and it will be given to you. Search and you will find.
Knock and the door will be opened for you. The one who asks
will always receive; the one who is searching will always find,
and the door is opened to the man who knocks.”
MatTTHEW 7:7—8 PHILLIPS

n these days of information overload, your mind is likely

|overcluttered with various what-if scenarios swirling around
in your head. It’s likely that you're not even conscious of all
these unchecked worries.
Fortunately, you have a Father God who can give you
peace of mind, heart, spirit, and soul. As His daughter, you
have the privilege to come before Him in prayer.
Jesus says that when you give God your worries and Ask
for His peace, you'll get it. If you Seek the Father's presence,
youll find Him. If you Knock on the door of His home and
love, He'll open it to you.
Ask, Seek, and Knock (ASK)—and be blessed with
clarity, peace, and hope.

Here I am, Lord, giving, asking, seeking,

and knocking. Hear my prayer.
 OUT OF SELF AND INTO JESUS
b+@
AQ

Jesus. . said to them, Ifanyone intends to come after Me,

let him deny himself [forget, ignore, disown, and lose sight of
himself and his own interests] and take up his cross, and. . .
follow with Me [continually, cleaving steadfastly to Me].
Mark 8:34 AMPC

ome worries are egocentric. You worry you wont be pro-

moted, you won’ get the house you bid on, you'll never
get ahead monetarily, and so on. In this land of worry, it’s
all about you. But Jesus wants you to realize it’s really all
about Him and that if you want to be His follower, you're to
lose sight of yourself and your own interests.
That’s a tall order, but it is possible and so much more
freeing than fretting. When you empty yourself of your
concerns, you have more room to hold what God wants to
give you.
Get out of yourself and into Jesus. You'll find you won't
regret it.

Jesus, help me focus on You alone.

I want to get out of myself and into You!
 PROOF OF THE PROMISE
Me
And how bold and free we then become in his presence,
freely asking according to his will, sure that he’ listening.
And ifweve confident that he’ listening, we know
that what weve asked for is as good as ours.
I JOHN 5:14-15 MSG

n Mark 11:24, Jesus said that you'll get what you ask for if
|you really believe. Such a promise was proven by an account
of a woman who'd been bleeding for twelve years. She'd been
to lots of doctors and still was not whole. Hearing Jesus was
coming, she sneaked up to Him, saying to herself, “If 1only
touch his garment, I will be made well” (Matthew 9:21 Esv).
Jesus saw her and said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has
made you well” (Matthew 9:22 rEsv). And in that instant,
she was!
Take your concerns to God. Let Him know your desires.
Then leave all in His hands, believing that He's listened and
what youve asked for is already yours—and it will be.

Jesus, You prove the promises, so Im bringing You all my

concerns, knowing what You will for me is already mine.
 EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
Me
Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to
receive alms. And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John,
and said, “Look at us.” And he fixed his attention on them,
expecting to receive something from them.
AcTS 3:3—5 ESV

hen you bring your worries to God, chances are you also
let Him know how youd like things worked out before
you leave them all in His hands. In other words, you let God
know what you expect to happen. But sometimes what you
expect is not the best thing for you.
Take the lame man sitting outside the temple. He
expected Peter and John to give him money. But they gave
him something else—healing in Jesus’ name!
Rest assured that when you hand your troubles over to
God, He'll go deeper, to the very core of your desire, and
discover what you really want. Expect God to give you the
unexpected, the better thing.

Lord, when I give You my concerns,

help me expect the unexpected!
 BECOMING A BLESSING

The Lorp said to Abram, “Leave your land, your relatives,

and your fathers home. Go to the land that I will show you.
I will make you a great nation, I will bless you. I will make
your name great, and you will be a blessing.”
GENESIS I2:I-2 GW

hances are that most of your worries are about you and
()your own life, and that’s only normal. But after you've
come to God in prayer and dropped your worries off with
Him, He would have you leave the land of You-ville behind
and come into the land He'll show you—the one where it’s all
about God and others.
Freed up from your own concerns, you now have room
and time to bring to God the concerns of others. That’s you
following Jesus and using the kingdom power of prayer on
behalf of others. That’s you becoming a blessing to others and
God, continuing the work your Master started.
God’s ready to go. Are you?

I have friends I'd like to bring to You today, Abba.

They need Your blessing.
 POWER AND PEACE ARE YOURS
M8
The Lorb will give power to his people.
The Lorp will bless his people with peace.
PSALM 29:11 GW

he statements above are so simple. Yet they're filled with

ies
God is ruler over all. And you're His daughter, one of
“his people.” Thus, on days when you're weakened by worry,
you can go to God for all the strength you need. He'll give
you the power to persevere and prevail. And, good daughter,
He'll also bless you with peace in this very moment and all
the moments to come.
There’s only one caveat. You need to believe, to fix these
facts firmly in your mind so you'll not feel helpless and veer
from the path He’s laid out for you.
So drop your worries by the doorstep as you enter God’s
presence. Take in all the strength and peace, which He’s
always waiting to give you. And go on your ey in His name
and power.

Lord, my God and King, I come into Your presence.

Fill me with Your power and peace so I may do Your will.
 GETTING IN HARMONY WITH GOD
Me
“Be in harmony and at peace with God. In this way
you will have prosperity. Accept instruction from
his mouth, and keep his words in your heart.”
Jos 22:21-22 Gw

Va youre caught up in a cycle of worry and anxiety,

youre not in harmony with God. On top of that, your
fretting begins to become a barrier between you and Him.
This keeps you from receiving the full power, strength, and
peace God aches to give you.
Today, get back in harmony with God. Put your trust
in the words and promises of the love letter (the Bible)
He’s written just for you. Ingest His wisdom and follow it,
allowing it to have full sway over your thoughts. Don’t just
I
write His words on your heart; keep them there so when
worry flares up, you can quench it with God’s wisdom. In
so doing, you'll find yourself prospering more than you ever
dreamed or imagined.

I want Your song in my heart, Lord. Help me leave my

worry behind as I get myself back in harmony with You.
 GETTING A FAITH-LIFT
i '-@

Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down,

but a good word makes him glad.
PROVERBS 12:25 ESV

orry is a weight that presses upon your heart. That's why

W the psalmist wrote that you should “Pile your troubles
on Gop’s shoulders—he'll carry your load, he'll help you
out” (Psalm 55:22 msc). That's why Jesus told you not to
be anxious about anything but come to Him if you're heavy
laden; that He'll give you the rest you need (see Matthew 6:25;
11:28). That’s why Peter reminds you to “Give all your worries
and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7 NrT).
But where’s a modern woman to obtain that “good
word” she needs to make her glad? In God’s Word. Find a
verse, psalm, or story that speaks to your heart—and make
it part of your story. When you do, you'll find yourself lifted
up to the heavenly God who waits to greet you.

My heart is heavy, Lord, so Im digging into Vou Word.

Reveal the words I need to lift me up to You!
 CONFIDENCE IN GOD
I
I know and rest in confidence upon it that the
Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted,
and will secure justice for the poor and needy.
PSALM 140:12 AMPC

ccording to headlines, evil and violence appear to be on

A the rise. Hearing all the bad news that’s out there, you may
find yourself worrying not only about your own safety but
about the safety of others, as well as justice for the afflicted.
It’s almost too much to take in! Yet you weren't meant or
designed to do so.
Your only recourse is to just hand those suffering over
to God and to rest in the confidence that He will take care of
all those harmed by evil and violence. That He will see justice
for His children. It may not happen tomorrow, in your life-
time, or on this side of heaven, but it will happen. In God’s
time and way.
Meanwhile, begin lifting to God all those who are trou-
bled, and leave the outcome in His hands.

Lord, Im handing over the afflicted to You.

Heal their hearts, and bring them justice.
 GOD IS NEAR
‘8
The Lorp is close to the brokenhearted;
he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
PsaLM 34:18 NLT

uman beings are fragile creatures. As one such being, your

heart can break, your spirit be crushed. It can happen after
hearing mean words from someone or suffering the betrayal
of someone you counted on and trusted. Maybe it happened
upon the death of a loved one. Perhaps it was the loss ofa job,
a house, a business, a pastor, a friend. Whatever the cause,
upon the heels of abroken heart and a crushed spirit, anxiety
is sure to follow. You wonder, Why did it happen? How do I
go on from here?
Know that in the midst of trial, God is right there with
you. He’s holding you in His arms. He’ll heal your heart,
restore your spirit, and alleviate your anxiety. You need say
nothing more than, “Lord. . .help me.”

Thank You, Lord, for always being there when I need You.
You're the one sure thing I can count on. You will heal
my heart, revive my spirit, and calm my soul.
 BELIEVE AND LOOK

be
[What, what would have become of me] had I not believed
that I would see the Lord’ goodness in the land of the living!
Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and ofgood
courage... . Yes, wait forand hope for and expect the Lord.
PSALM 27:13—14 AMPC

he AMPC translation above asks what would become of

ibe if you didn’t believe you'd see God’s goodness in the
world in which youre now living? If you let your worries and
anxieties have complete sway over you, annihilating any hope
that God will do something and you will see the results?
God’s Word gives you a simple verse to memorize, to
fortify your faith, and to give you hope when all seems hope-
less: “I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the
Lorp in the land of the living!” (Psalm 27:13 Esv). That's
a simple verse to memorize, fortifying your faith and giving
you hope when all seems hopeless. Make it part of your
arsenal. Determine to look to God with complete dependence
and trust. Then you'll find the strength and courage to get
through anything.

I expect to see Your goodness, Lord,

in this land. This gives me hope!
 YOUR HIDING PLACE

For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble.

You surround me with songs of victory.
PSALM 32:7 NLT

hysically, it’s difficult to find a place where you can truly

hide. Someone will always find you, whether it be the kids,
the boss, the husband, or the boyfriend. It’s almost as if their
radar goes off whenever you want to find a moment alone.
Yet spiritually there is one place you can always go to
get away from all people and all worry. It’s in God’s presence.
Once you're there, you find yourself surrounded with not just
love and encouragement but with songs of victory.
God is your biggest cheerleader and best coach. He says,
“T will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will
advise you and watch over you” (Psalm 32:8 nur). His only
caveat is for you not to be stubborn when He tells you which
way to go, what to do. But that’s a small price to pay to live
in victory.

Lord, I come to hide in You. Save me, guide me.

Make me putty in Your hands.
 GOD'S COMMAND FOR YOU
Me
“This is my command—be strong and courageous!
Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lorp
your God is with you wherever you go.”
JOSHUA 1:9 NLT

oses has died, and Joshua is left to lead God’s people into
M the Promised Land. Can you imagine all the thoughts
that must have been going through Joshua’s head? Perhaps
that’s why God tells him three times to be strong and
courageous and two times that He would be with him (see
Joshua 1:5—9).
Chances are your challenges are not as great as Joshua's.
But even if they are, these are the words God wants you to
take to heart. Forget about worrying. That will only sap your
energy and courage. Instead, know with certainty that God és
with you. He will never leave you. No matter where you go,
God is there. So be strong and brave. God’s got you.

Thank You, Lord, for these encouraging words. Help me

get them through my head so that I can be the strong
and courageous woman Youve designed me to be!
 KEEP GOING
M4
I do not consider myself to have “arrived”, spiritually, nor do I
consider myself already perfect. But I keep going on, grasping
ever more firmly that purpose for which Christ grasped me.
PHILIPPIANS 3:13 PHILLIPS

© you sometimes worry about the things you've said and

done? It’s time to leave the past in the past. God knows
you aren't perfect. That’s why He sent Jesus and then left
you His Spirit, so that youd have supernatural help on your
journey through life.
So don’t let would’ves, could’ves, and sheuldiecs rule
your life. Just keep going, leaving the outcome of all things
to God. Don’t look behind, worrying about the ramifications
of your words and actions. Hand them over to God. Then
“leave the past behind and with hands outstretched to what-
ever lies ahead. . .go straight for the goal,” heading for the
“reward. . .of being called by God in Christ” (Philippians
3:14 PHILLIPS).

Jesus, please help me leave the past in the past. I dont

want to be like Lots wife [see Luke 17:32], frozen
where I stand. Help me move forward toward You.
 THORNS OF WORRY AND RICHES
Me
“The seed planted among thornbushes is another person
who hears the word. But the worries of life and the
deceitful pleasures of riches choke the word
so that it cant produce anything.”
MATTHEW 13:22 GW

esus tells a parable about a farmer who sows seed. The

J seed that fell on the path is grabbed up by birds (the evil
one). The seed sown on the rocky ground quickly withered
when the sun scorched it. These are people of little faith who
lost their way when troubles came. The seeds that fell amid
thorns got choked out. These are people who allowed the
cares of the world and money to choke God’s Word out of
their life, making them unfruitful.
Your goal is to give your worries to God—not to focus
on the treasures of this world, but to grow on God’s Word,
allowing it to build you up. Then you'll be the fruitful seed,
yielding more crops than you ever thought possible.
God’s waiting. Bloom where He’s planted you.

Help me bear fruit for You, Lord, as I let

go of my worries and take up Your Word.
 POWER TOOLS
sa fs

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice,

of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has
given us a spirit] ofpower and of love and of calm and
well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.
2 TIMOTHY 1:7 AMPC

od doesn’t want your worries to keep you cowering in the

wings, afraid to step out on the stage, so He’s gifted you
with tools to help you live out a heavenly life while you're here
on earth. He’s given you a spirit of power, the same power He
used to raise Jesus from the dead (see Philippians 3:10). He’s
filled you with the spirit of love, which prompts you to please
God and put the welfare of others above your own. And He’s
given you a calm, well-balanced mind.
Use the power tools God has given you. Put worries
behind as you pour yourself into God and construct a heaven
on earth through prayer.

Lord, thank You for the power tools of love and a calm mind.
Help me use them to build up Your kingdom.
 GOD'S PATHWAY FOR YOU
tne
Your road led through the sea, your pathway through
the mighty waters—a pathway no one knew was there!
You led your people along that road like a flock ofsheep,
with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds.
PsALM 77:19—20 NLT

wes may come upon you like mighty waters. Once

you were standing in the shallows, then you wandered
deeper into the depths, and before you knew it, you were
caught in the undertow. How would you ever regain your
footing?
Before you let your worries pull you under, go to God.
Ask Him to show you the pathway you cannot see with your
limited vision. He will clearly reveal the road He’s carved
out just for you, the path He’s provided by dividing waters,
obliterating the worry and despair that blocks your way.
Then He'll calm you, take you by the hand, and carefully
and masterfully guide you as any good and loving shepherd
would.

I don't want these worries to take me under, Lord.

Calm my soul. Take my hand. Lead me,
Good Shepherd, to safety and hope.
 EQUIPPED BY GOD
M6
Then David took his shepherd's staff, selected five smooth stones
from the brook, and put them in the pocket of his shepherds
pack, and with his sling in his hand approached Goliath.
1 SAMUEL 17:40 MSG

© you sometimes worry youre not equipped to face the

D challenges before you?
David didn’t. He was just a young shepherd boy when
he convinced King Saul that God would help him defeat
Goliath. And when Saul tried to outfit David in kingly
armor, David said, “I can’t even move with all this stuff on
me. I’m not used to this” (1 Samuel 17:39 mse). So he took it
off and donned his usual gear: his trust in God, a staff, stones,
and a sling. With these, David took down the giant.
Just as God equipped David to defeat Goliath, God’s
given you exactly what you need to face your own challenges.
So leave your worries in His hands, take up the weapon of
prayer, don your usual gear, and you too will win the battle.

Thank You, Lord, for giving me all

I need to face the challenges before me.
 AT HOME IN GOD
Ne
Youve taken my hand. You wisely and tenderly lead me, and
then you bless me... . Im in the very presence of Gob—oh,
how refreshing it is! I've made Lord Gob my home.
PSALM 73:23—24, 28 MSG

hen you worry you'll never find your way, take a look at
where youre standing. Have you moved away from God?
Remember the Lord is your rock, fortress, and shelter.
When you get close to Him in prayer, He'll take your hand
and lead you exactly where you need to go, and then He'll
bless you as soon as your feet touch down on the path He’s
opened up for you.
Today, get yourself into the presence of God. Allow
Him to take your hand. As you do, youl not only find the
refreshment you've been thirsting for but the home your
spirit and soul have been longing for—in Him alone.

Lord, when doubts and worries assail me, help me get back
to You, my only true home in this world and the next.
 GOD CALLS YOU AS HE SEES YOU
ea
The angel of the LorD appeared to him and said,
“Mighty hero, the LorD is with you!”
JUDGEs 6:12 NLT

he Midianites kept taking all the crops God’s people had

Aier So Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress,
hiding his grain from the Midianite raiders. That’s when
God came and called him a “mighty hero.”
Yet Gideon denied God’s estimation of him, telling God
he was the least in his family and his clan the weakest of
its tribe. But God told Gideon He was sending him, that
Gideon was to go in the strength he had. God would be with
him, and he would defeat the enemy. (See Judges 6:14—16.)
When you worry you aren't good enough to do what
God has called you to do, go to Him in prayer. He'll remind
you who you are, a mighty hero, a daughter of God. Your
job is to believe Him, to trust Him to empower you. Then
you'll become the woman God sees you already are.

Help me see myself through Your eyes, Lord,

a mighty daughter ofa mighty God.
 GOD HAS A FIRM GRIP ON YOU

“Dont panic. Im with you. Theres no need to fear forIm your

God. I'll give you strength. I'll help you. I'll hold you steady,
keep a firm grip on you. Count on it: Everyone who had it
in for you will end up out in the cold—real losers.”
ISAIAH 41:10—II MSG

saiah 41:10—13 are wonderful verses to take hold of when

worry turns to fear and then panic. They are words spoken
by your God, who knows all things that have happened, are
happening, and will happen to you.
God tells you not to panic because He is with you. He'll
give you all the strength you need to face whatever lies before
you. He has your hand, and He’ll never let you go. He'll
keep you steady on your feet, give you firm footing to walk
where He'd have you go. And those who threaten you today
will be gone tomorrow.
Believe, and you will have the strength and peace your
heart, spirit, and soul crave.

Lord, in You Ifind my courage. Im counting on You alone!

43
 PONDERING GOD

I meditate on all Your doings; Iponder the work of Your

hands... . Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in
the morning, for on You do I lean and in You do I trust.
Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk,
for I lift up my inner selfto You.
PsaLM 143:5, 8 AMPC

ne surefire way to keep worry at bay is to go to God in

¢ the morning, before your feet hit the floor, before your
mind has a chance to wander into dangerous doubts, fears,
and imaginings.
Open God’s Word or focus on tried-and-true verses that
lift your thoughts and shield your mind. Remember all the
great things God has done in the past, and thank Him for
what He’s doing in the present. Then lean in close. Tell God
you trust Him. Ask Him to show you the way youre to go.
Listen to what He says as you lift up your inner woman to
Him, spirit to Spirit, love to Love.

I'm coming to You before all other things, Lord.

Love me, lead me, lift me to You.
 GOD TO THE RESCUE
tne
Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect
me from the anger of my enemies. You reach out your
hand, and the power ofyour right hand saves me.
The Lord will work out his plans for my life—for your
faithful love, O Lorb, endures forever.
PsALM 138:7—8 NLT

ometimes life can surprise you. You're going along your

merry way, and then all of asudden, before you know it,
youre surrounded by trouble. You're in the thick of a situa-
tion you never saw coming. Now youre more than worried—
youre ready to freak out!
Stop. Take a deep breath no matter where you are or
what youre doing. Remind yourself that God will—is—
protecting you. His power is saving you in that very moment.
He’s going to work everything out for you. Why? Because
He not only loves you but has a good plan for your life. All
you need to do is trust Him and live it!

Protect me, Lord, when danger steals in.

I know Youll save me. You have a plan!
 PERFECT, TRUSTING PEACE
Ine
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you,
all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
IsAIAH 26:3 NLT

oet Kathleen Norris wrote, “Prayer is not asking for what

ee think you want, but asking to be changed in ways you
can't imagine.”
Wouldn't you love to be able to be calm, unflustered,
serene no matter what comes your way? Can you even imag-
ine what that would look like? .
It is possible to have perfect peace. It’s a simple formula
to remember: ‘The first part is to trust in God. That means
committing yourself to Him and His ways, leaning on Him,
hoping and expecting Him to move in your life. The second
part is keeping your mind on Him. That means planting
His Word deep within yourself, spending time with Him,
and learning about who He is.
Ask God to change you from a worrier to a woman of
peace. He'll then do the unimaginable—to your good and
His glory!

Lord, I want the calm only You can provide. Change me, Lord.
Make me a woman ofperfect, trusting peace.

46
 CONFESS AND REFRESH
Ine
So repent (change your mind and purpose); turn around
and return [to God], that your sins may be erased
(blotted out, wiped clean), that times of refreshing
(of recovering from the effects of heat, of reviving with
fresh air) may come from the presence of the Lord.
ACTS 3:19 AMPC

f handing your worries over to God in prayer isn’t bringing

|you peace, it may be you haven't told Him all that’s been
going on in your life. You haven't confessed those things you
don't even want to admit to yourself. And so, they remain
hidden within you, festering like an unclean wound.
Dear woman, nothing is hidden from God. He sees all
you do, hears all you say (see Job 34:21). But if you want to
be refreshed, to have less worry and more peace, ask God
to examine you (Psalm 139:23-24). To reveal the hidden
missteps you have yet to confess. Know that God will forgive
you. And afterward you'll come away more refreshed than
ever!

Lord, look within me. Reveal the misstep

thats keeping me anxious. Help me tell You all.
 EXPERIENCING GOD'S MANY ASPECTS
M6
Blessed be the Lord, my Rock and my keen and firm Strength
.. .my Steadfast Love and my Fortress, my High Tower and my
Deliverer, my Shield and He in Whom I trust and take refuge.
PSALM 144:1—2 AMPC

our vision for your life, your day, seems a bit cloudy. You've
(fae and you've prayed, and still you come away with
some dregs of anxiety you can’t seem to clear out. Perhaps it’s
time to go slow. To go deep. To experience who God truly is.
To soothe your soul by acknowledging His many facets.
See God as your solid rock that will not be moved. Allow
Him to be your strength. Recognize He is your steadfast
love, forever and constant. He is your great protector, your
fortress. In times of trouble, you can run to Him, your
high tower, and be safe. He, your deliverer and ever-present
shield, will rescue and protect you.
Trust and take refuge in God, your all in all.

Today in You Im going deep, Lord—my rock, strength,

steadfast love, fortress, high tower, deliverer, and shield.
 HABITUAL PRAYER
se

Be earnest and unwearied and steadfast in your

“6
prayer [life], being [both] alert and intent in
[your praying] with thanksgiving.
COLOSSIANS 4:2 AMPC

f your prayer life is sporadic, your peace will be also. And

|if you don't pepper your petitions with thanksgiving, your
prayers will become a mere litany of selfish desires youd like
fulfilled before you go on your way and in your own power.
That’s why the apostle Paul, the author of Colossians,
encourages you to pray continually from the heart and to
make prayer a tireless habit in your life.
So don’t go to God just once a day but throughout your
day. When you see someone suffering, pray. When worry
begins to creep into your mind, pray. While you're with God
in all ways all day, thank Him for all He has done, is doing,
and will do. In so doing, not only will all your worries fade,
but you'll find yourself walking God’s way and in His power.

Help me, Lord, to be steadfast in my prayer life,

continually giving thanks to You in all ways all day.

49
 GOD—THE CYCLE BREAKER
M6

When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God

for what he has promised... . For you have rescued me from
death; you have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can
walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light.
PSALM 56:3—4, 13 NLT

ear can cause anxiety, and anxiety can cause fear. It’s a
Be cycle, but it’s one God can break.
To steer clear of fear and to keep worry from taking over
your life—the life God wants you to live in Him—you need
to trust the One who rules and sustains the universe. That
person is God.
When you're afraid, trust God. Remember all the
promises He’s made to you, including the fact that He goes
before you and behind you. That He'll never ever leave nor
forsake you.
God has already sent Jesus to rescue you from death and
given you the Holy Spirit to guide your feet. So trust Him.
As you do, you'll be walking in His life-giving light!

When Im afraid, I'll trust in You, Lord!

 A STACK OF BLESSINGS WAITING FOR YOU
M6
Desperate, I throw myself on you: you are my God! Hour
by hour I place my days in your hand. ... What a stack of
blessing you have piled up for those who worship you, ready
and waiting for all who run to you to escape an unkind world.
PSALM 31:14-15, 19 MSG

ne good way to throw off worry is to throw yourself on

God in the midst of it. Second by second, minute by
minute, hour by hour, put yourself into the hands of One
who loves and protects you. The One who longs to talk to
you, walk with you, and carry you when necessary.
No matter what your troubles or worries, God will
find a unique way of making good come out of anything
and everything that comes your way. So escape into God,
knowing He has a stack of blessings waiting just for you.

My worries evaporate when I put myself in Your hands, Lord.

In You a stack of blessings are waiting—just for me!
 GOD'S RAINBOW IN THE CLOUDS
68
“Whenever Iform clouds over the earth, a rainbow
will appear in the clouds. Then I will remember
my promise to you and every living animal.”
GENESIS 9:14-15 GW

od was disappointed with the humans He'd created, so

He sent floodwaters to destroy all living creatures—all
except for Noah’s family and the animals in the ark, of course.
Afterward, regretting what He’d done, God told Noah the
rainbow would be a sign of His promise to never again allow
water to destroy all life. |
God promises that He'll never give up on you no matter
what youve done. He will be there for you no matter how
great your flood of worries and troubles. Let God’s beautiful
rainbow amid the clouds be a reminder that He will make
something good come out of the storms in your life (see
Romans 8:28). Just look up to Him and His spectral arc. He’s
set something good for you amid your clouds.

Father God, thank You for making all things work for good.
Help mefocus on Your rainbow amid my clouds.

52
 GOD'S GATEWAY OF HOPE
Se
‘T will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her
there. I will return her vineyards to her and transform
the Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope.”
HOsEA 2:14—-15 NLT

od is so tenderhearted toward you. He desires to spend

Gene with you, to speak to you. So go to Him with your
worries. Pour out all the anxious thoughts in your mind.
Unburden your heart of all that’s concerning you. Tell Him
everything that’s troubling your spirit and keeping you from
focusing on Him.
As you do so, God will come close and listen. Then He
will talk to you with a soft voice, pour out His wisdom, and
cover you with His love. He will bless you with His peace
and presence. Before you know it, you'll find Him transform-
ing your dark valley of despair into a shining gateway of hope.

Lord, Ifeel lost in this dark Valley of Trouble. So I

come to You, pouring out my heart. Lead me
to the gateway of the hope I have in You!
 IN RHYTHM WITH JESUS
e

“Come to me.... I'll show you how to take a real rest... .

Watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms ofgrace. . . .
Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.”
MatTTHEW 11:28-30 MSG

orrying is only human, yet it can become an energy-

Wee if you don't take your concerns to Jesus on a
regular basis. Perhaps you don't want to keep bothering Him
with the same old concerns. Or you think you can fix your
problems on your own. .
Remember that Jesus doesn’t want the evil one to steal or
destroy your life with worry. Jesus wants you to come to Him,
to let Him carry your load. He came so His followers “can
have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever
dreamed of” (John 10:10 msg). So, for a real rest, get away
with Jesus. Get into His rhythm. You'll find yourself living
not only right but light!

I want to be in rhythm with You, Lord.

Lets spend this moment together.

54
 YOUR WORRY LIST

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content

with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave
you norforsake you.” So we can confidently say,
“The Lord is my helper; I will not fear.”
HEBREWS 13:5—G6 ESV

omeone once wrote, “You can tell the size of your God by
looking at the size of your worry list. The longer your list,
the smaller your God.” Hmm. How big is your God? How
long is your worry list?
Do your concerns revolve around money or things you
don’t really need? Is your discontent rising up because you
don’t have the latest cell phone, the most fashionable clothes,
the best-looking lawn, or the nicest car?
Today consider writing down your worries. See how
many things you can cross off, knowing you can be content
with what you have. Then hand over to God whatever worries
are left, trusting Him, your helper, to provide whatever you
truly need.

Lord, help me be content with what I have and trust

You to provide all things I truly do need. Amen.

55
 REAL LOVE
ae:
God showed how much he loved us by sending his
one and only Son into the world so that we might
have eternal life through him. This is real love—
not that we loved God, but that he loved us.
1 JOHN 4:9-10 NLT

veryone has times when they’re feeling unloved, unnoticed,

I or uncared for—even by the people closest to them! They
begin to worry, wondering if they matter at all!
If you're going through such a time, take heart. God
loves you more than you can imagine. You're the apple of His
eye. He gave up His one and only Son to save you from death
and darkness. He loved you even before you loved Him!
Although that sounds lopsided, it’s true!
God will never not love you. He has His eye on you,
cares deeply for you. He provides what you need—before you
need it!
Rest easy, beloved daughter. Father God’s love has you
covered!

Thank You for loving me, Lord, even when I

dont love myself! Fill me with Your love so
I can love all those You put in my path.
 OPEN DOORS
JS <8

“Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is

able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet
you have kept my word and have not denied my name.”
REVELATION 3:8 ESV

ver worry that you might be on the wrong path? Have you
had a door opened or shut in your face lately? No need to
worry. As Catherine Wood Marshall wrote, “Often God has
to shut a door in our face so that He can subsequently open
the door through which He wants us to go.”
God has a definite plan for your life. He wants you to
be successful, to prosper, to bloom where He’s planted you.
So instead of worrying if you're on the right or wrong road,
go to God. Ask Him to come up behind you and tell you
which way to turn, if turn you must. Rest easy, knowing He's
guiding you and wont let you go down any rabbit holes.

Lord, show me what doors Youve opened—or shut.

Im trusting You to lead me the right way. Amen.
 GOD THE REWARDER
Jx@
No one can please God without faith.
Whoever goes to God must believe that God
exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
HEBREWS I1:6 Gw

orry comes when you have a problem or situation that

He unsolvable or hopeless. Or when youre uncertain
about how long you can hang on before God will help you or
provide an answer.
That’s why you must take your worries to Gad. believing
He exists, knowing that because you're seeking His face, He
will reward you.
As soon as you enter God’s presence and focus on Him,
your initial reward is the unsurpassing peace that falls upon
you. As you unload your burdens, you realize how small they
seem compared to the feats He continually accomplishes
and the promises He consistently fulfills. And you now take
comfort from the knowledge that God will reward you with
an answer to your prayer, a solution to your problem, and
strength until they arrive.

Im seeking Your face before all else, Lord, knowing that

You do exist and You will reward me as I come into Your
presence, beginning with Your unfathomable peace.

58
 IT'S GOD WHO SAVES
Ms6@
The Lorp said to Gideon, “You have too many warriors with
you. IfI let all ofyou fight the Midianites, the Israelites will
boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength.”
JUDGEs 7:2 NLT

od told Gideon to gather an army to defeat the Midianites,

who'd been raiding Israel. But Gideon had too many
warriors with him, so many that the Israelites might imagine
their own strength had saved them instead of God.
So, through a series of commands to Gideon, God pared
down his army from 32,000 to 300 men, who went on to
defeat their enemy.
It’s plain to see that when God is in your camp, you
need not worry you don't have enough resources to win the
day. God will equip you with all the strength, power, and
provisions you need—for the victory lies solely in His hands!

All
Ineed to win the day is to have You on my side, Lord.
Youll provide me with all the strength, power, and provisions
I need because the victory is in Your hands alone!
 A WAY-OUT GOD
a.)
No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course
of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that
God will never let you down; hell never let you be pushed past
your limit; hell always be there to help you come through it.
1 CORINTHIANS 10:13 MSG

o matter what troubles you encounter as you travel

N through this life, your experiences are really nothing new.
Some other woman has walked that road before. So don't
worry, fear, or panic. Others have found a way through, and
so will you.
Instead of getting caught up in worry, take all your con-
cerns to God. Remember that He'll never let you down. He'll
never let things go too far, beyond what you can handle. And
He'll stick with you, strengthening and helping you each
moment.
So trust God. He'll help you find the perfect escape route
while teaching you valuable lessons along the way.

Lord, I know others have walked this road before,

so Im not going to worry. Youll help mefind
my way out of this trial, and into You.
 LIKE A CHILD
be.
NA@

But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me.

Dont stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven
belongs to those who are like these children.”
MATTHEW 19:14 NLT

ittle children don’t worry. That’s because they trust in their

L parents for everything—food, clothing, water, protection,
and love. They’re vulnerable and cannot get far without their
mother’s or father’s help and guidance. So they're happy to
take their parent’s hand, knowing they'll be safely led across
the street, through the store, or up the stairs to bed.
That’s how God wants you to be—like a trusting child.
He wants you not to worry about anything but to rely on
~ Him for everything. He wants you to be humble, realizing
your complete dependence on Him, knowing you won't get
far without your hand in His.
Be like a child and youll find yourself growing up
securely in God.

You are such a good father and mother to me, Lord. Help me
be like a little child, realizing Youll safely lead me where
Youd have me go. Im putting myselfin Your hands. Amen.

61
 EYES ON GOD
M8
“7
f

We have no might to stand against this great

company that is coming against us. We do not
know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.
2 CHRONICLES 20:12 AMPC

hree armies were coming to attack Jehoshaphat, king of

Judah. At first, the king feared for himself and his people,
but then he “set himself. . .to seek the Lord” (2 Chronicles
20:3 aMpc)—and prayed.
Jehoshaphat recalled God’s strength and power. Then he
asked for God’s help, admitting that he and his people didn’t
have the strength to fight that which was coming against
them. They didn’t know what to do, but their eyes would be
on God.
When you don't know what to do, you may worry at
first. But prayer will get you realigned with God. Seek Him
and recall His strength. Admit your weakness and confusion.
Then keep your eyes on God, and you'll gain the victory He
provides.

Lord, Youve strong and mighty, and Im weak.

I dont know what to do, but Im keeping my
eyes on You, knowing that’s where victory lies.
 STAND STILL AND SEE
Ne
Be not afraid or dismayed at this great multitude; for the
battle is not yours, but Gods... . You shall not need
to fight in this battle; take your positions, stand still,
and see the deliverance of the Lord [Who is] with you.
2 CHRONICLES 20:15, 17 AMPC

fter King Jehoshaphat prayed, God told the king and his
A people not to worry or be dismayed because the battle
before them was God’s. All they were to do was to go where
God told them to go, stand there, and watch Him save them.
When you come up against a conflict or challenge, keep
these powerful verses in mind. They'll alleviate your fears
about the situation and your worries about how to handle it.
Then put yourself and your battle in God’s hands. Go
where He tells you to go. Knowing He’s with you, calmly take
your stand and watch God work His wonders.

I don't know what Youve going to do, Lord,

but Iknow my role. I'll go where You tell me,
calmly stand there, and watch You work.
 YOUR GREATEST WEAPONS
aoe
Jehoshaphat stopped and said, “Listen to me, all you
people ofJudah and Jerusalem! Believe in the Lor
your God, and you will be able to stand firm.
Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed.”
2 CHRONICLES 20:20 NLT

fter God had given King Jehoshaphat his marching orders,

he told his people to believe in God, stand firm, and
they'd see success in the mighty battle against them. Then he
appointed singers to march out in front of his army and sing
songs of praise to God. “At the very moment they began to
sing and give praise, the Lorp caused the armies. . .to start
fighting among themselves” (2 Chronicles 20:22 nur). By the
time the army of Judah got to the battleground, there was
nothing left for them to do but gather up the spoils.
Your greatest weapons against fear and worry are prayer
and praise. Pray for guidance, and then praise the God you
love and believe in. You'll be able not only to stand strong but
to find treasures galore.

Lord, thank You for fighting for me. Your faithful

love endures forever! [See 2 Chronicles 20:21.]
 LOOK UP
be.
7 ON we

Pursue the things over which Christ presides.

Dont shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with
the things right in front ofyou. Look up, and be alert
to what is going on around Christ—thats where
the action is. See things from his perspective.
COLOSSIANS 3:2 MSG

ave you ever seen people walking along, looking down

H at their cell phones? They’re so worried they're going to
miss the latest text, email, or news bite, so absorbed in what’s
happening on their mobile device that they aren't watching
where they're going. And before they know it, they've
_ either walked into something or fallen into a hole and hurt
themselves.
God wants your focus off the ground and on to heavenly
things. He wants you checking out what Jesus is doing, see-
ing things from His point of view. Looking up at Him will
keep you from stumbling where God wants you soaring.

Jesus, I get so attached to things of this earth—

and thats when I stumble into worry. Help me keep
my eyes looking up to You, alert to what Youve doing.

65
 COME AS YOU ARE
M6
Let everyone come who is thirsty [who is painfully conscious of
his need of those things by which the soul is refreshed, supported,
and strengthened]; and whoever [earnestly] desires to do it,
let him come. . .and drink the water ofLife without cost.
REVELATION 22:17 AMPC

ave you worried you aren't good enough to come to God

H and unload your cares and concerns? That you aren't
worthy enough to ask for and receive God’s mercy, Jesus’ love,
and the Holy Spirit's help?
In the hymn “Come Ye Sinners,” lyricist Joseph Hart
provides these words: “Come, ye weary, heavy-laden/Lost and
ruined by the fall/If you tarry til you're better/You will never
come at all.”
God knows you aren't perfect. That's why He sent Jesus
to save you and left the Holy Spirit to help you. So don’ tarry.
Go to God and set your burdens down. Take up His light,
and you'll find refreshment for your soul, strength for your
spirit, and love for your heart.

Im coming to You just as I am, Lord.

Take my worries and give me Your peace.

66
 SPIRITUAL SOWING
! “@

He who sows to his own flesh (lower nature, sensuality) will

from the flesh reap decay and ruin and destruction, but he
who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
GALATIANS 6:8 AMPC

hen youre in a state of worry, youre sowing to your flesh,

planting worry-seeds that will reap only more worry, or
worse, grow into outright fear and panic. Before you know
it, youre doing or saying something you didn’t want to do or
say that may destroy or deaden the spirits of others.
So, when worry crops up, do yourself and the world a
favor. Take some deep breaths. Dig into the Word. Find a
verse that calms your spirit and builds up your faith. Write
_ that verse upon your heart. Then seek God’s face and peace.
Soon, you'll be sowing in the Spirit and reaping the light of
eternal life.

Im tired of sowing worry, Lord. It only grows up

into bigger WOTT1ES, OF WOTSE. Help me grow in You,
sowing to the Spirit, reaping Your light.

JY
ere
TE
ee
ee
 BEING A BLESSING
Se
e

We can't allow ourselves to get tired of living the right way.

Certainly, each of us will receive everlasting life at the
proper time, ifwe dont give up. Whenever we have the
opportunity, we have to do what is good for everyone.
GALATIANS 6:9—10 GW

f you allow yourself to be bogged down by worry, you won't

have the energy to focus on anything but those things that
concern and affect you. With your eyes on only yourself, you
can no longer take advantage of—or even see—opportunities
to help someone else. You stop being a blessing to others.
God wants you to love not just Him and yourself but
your neighbors: the people lying by the road, wounded and
bleeding physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially, and
mentally.
Today, get out of yourself and into God and others by
doing something good for your neighbor, friend, relative, ora
stranger. As soon as you start focusing on others, your worries
will fade in the light oflove.

IT want to expand my vision, Lord, to help those in need.

Show me who I can help and love in Your name.

68
 GOD'S PATIENCE
Se
The Lord isnt slow to do what he promised. . . . Rather,
he is patient for your sake. He doesn't want to destroy
anyone but wants all people to have an opportunity to
turn to him and change the way they think and act.
2 PETER 3:9 GW

any women come to church alone because their mates

don't yet believe in Jesus. Some people call these women
“church widows.” Perhaps you're one of them. You worry and
wonder, Will my loved one ever believe?
It’s good to be concerned about the salvation of others,
but it shouldn't be all consuming. Instead of spending
your time worrying about your loved ones—whether they
“are spouses, children, parents, or friends—fix your eyes on
God. He has tons of patience and He has a plan, wanting
to give everyone the opportunity to follow His Son. In the
meantime, be the best God-follower you can be. And pray
for the souls of others, leaving their fate in God’s capable
hands.

Lord, thank You for always being with me.

Today, I lift up the following pre-Christians to You. . .

69
 GOD MAKES YOUR PATHS PLAIN
a
Trust in the Lorp with all your heart, and do not lean on
your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge
him, and he will make straight your paths.
PROVERBS 3:5—6 ESV

t some point in your life, chances are you asked God to tell
A you what He would have you do to serve Him, whether as
a missionary, pastor, wife, mother, writer, secretary, company
executive, mayor, and so on. And He answered your prayer,
directing you into an area that you already had a passion for.
But then, as the years passed, your passion ebbed a bit, and
now you're wondering if there is some new road He wants
you to take. Or you're worrying that maybe you had it wrong
from the very beginning!
Perhaps it’s time to ask God again to show you which
way to go. Then trust Him to do so—but don’t make a
move until He’s made everything plain. Patience will be your
reward.

Im leaning into and on You, Lord. Show me

the road You want me on. Im trusting in You.
 STAND STILL AND CONSIDER
Me @
Hear this. . .stand still and consider
the wondrous works of God.
Jos 37:14 AMPC

oday consider taking a break from the hectic pace of your

life and going for a relaxing prayer walk. Head out into
nature, whether that is your backyard, a nearby park, a beach,
a creek, or a tree planted in the city sidewalk. Once there,
stand still and think about all the wonderful things God has
created for your provision and enjoyment.
Touch the bark on a tree or the petal of a flower. If it’s
warm enough, take off your shoes and stick your feet in
the grass or wiggle your toes in the sand. Look up into the
~ heavens and take in the awesomeness of God.
As you prayerfully reconnect with God’s creation and
consider its vastness, your worries will seem trivial, and your
lips and mind will be filled with nothing but praise.

Im overwhelmed with the variety and vastness ofall You have

created, Lord. Help me stop worrying and start admiring all
Youve done for those You love in heaven and on earth.

et
a
ST
 SUPERHUMAN POWER
Ie
When you received the message of God. . .you welcomed
it not as the word of [mere] men, but as it truly is,
the Word of God, which is effectually at work in you
who believe [exercising its superhuman power in
those who adhere to and trust in and rely on it].
I IHESSALONIANS 2:13 AMPC

magine it! God’s Word is working in you, “exercising its

superhuman power” within you as you live it out, trusting
in and relying on it!
God’s Word is everything you need! It saves, guides,
warns, rewards, and counsels you. It trains you up into the
woman God has created you to be. It revives your spirit,
restores your strength, comforts your heart, nourishes your
soul, and renews your mind. It strengthens you, gives you
joy, and prospers you.
Forget about the worries. Focus on the Word. And God
will change you from the inside out!

I want to tap into Your superhuman power, Lord. Take my

worries into Your hands and pour out Your Word upon me!
 SERVING GODATSUCH A TIME
Se
‘And who knows whether you have not
come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
ESTHER 4:14 ESV

sther, a beautiful Jewish girl, was an orphan who became

i a queen. Then, when her cousin Mordecai discovered the
Jews were being persecuted, he sent word to Esther, telling
her that this may be her time to talk to the king and ask for
his help to save her people.
After receiving his message, a resolved Esther told
Mordecai to ask her people to fast and pray for three days,
saying, “Then I will go to the king, though it is against the
law, and if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16 Esv).
Perhaps you feel God is calling you, willing you to be
brave in His name. If so, pray. Ask God to replace your
worries with His peace, your fears with His courage. Don’t
miss this opportunity to serve God at such a time as this.

Lord, reveal to me any opportunities You have for me.

Fortified by Your peace and courage, I will serve You.

eee
LP
OE)
Se
TIE,
 MEDITATE ON WONDERS
Se
Every day [with its new reasons] will I bless You [affectionately
and gratefully praise You]; yes, I will praise Your name
forever and ever... . On the glorious splendor of Your majesty
and on Your wondrous works I will meditate.
PSALM 145:2, 5 AMPC

avid, the shepherd boy who turned king, loved to talk to

God. Many of his psalms speak of his fears, woes, and
worries. But David also looked for the good in his life. He
actively kept his eyes open for the new and amazing things
the Lord was doing every day and praised God for them.
Then he would keep God’s wonders in mind all day long.
Why not follow David’s example? After unloading your
worries, actively seek something new to praise God for. Keep
your eyes open to His wonders and works around you. Think
about them throughout your day. You'll find yourself so busy
looking for the good, you won't have time to worry.

Today Im looking for new reasons to praise and adore You,

Lord! On Your works and wonders I will meditate!
 LISTENING TO WISDOM
N4@
a.

Whoso hearkens to me [Wisdom] shall dwell securely and in

_ confident trust and shall be quiet, without fear or dread of evil.
PROVERBS 1:33 AMPC

o matter what Bible version you have, the verse above

N speaks volumes. God’s Word puts it this way, “Whoever
listens to me will live without worry and will be free from the
dread of disaster.” The “me” here is Wisdom, who, in some
chapters of Proverbs, is personified as a woman.
If you want to live without worry, you need to not just
pour out your troubles to God but to listen to Him when
He responds. To follow where His words and voice lead.
When you do, you will be free not only from fretting but
actually from the fear of evil and disaster. You will no longer
find yourself mentally envisioning the worst-case scenario
and rehearsing your reaction to it but living securely, quietly,
and peacefully, confident that God will give you the best-case
scenario.

I want to live in quiet confidence. My ears

are open to Your wisdom, Lord. Speak!
 THAT SPECIAL GLOW
Me aq

“If you are generous with the hungry and start giving yourselves
to the down-and-out, your lives will begin to glow in the
darkness, your shadowed lives will be bathed in sunlight.”
IsaIAH 58:10 MSG

hen your worries become a shadow in your life, get out

of yourself and into others. Find a food pantry you can
donate to. Consider volunteering at the next Thanksgiving
meal at a local soup kitchen. Weed a widow’s garden, offer to
drive a carless person to church, or help support a child who
lives in poverty.
As you expend your energy to help others, you will begin
to glow in this dark world. Your shadowed life will be bathed
in God’s Son’s light. And you'll find people saying, “I want
what she has.” There’s no better witness than that.

Lord, I want to get out from underneath this shadow of worry.

Open my eyes to the needs around me. What can I do today to
help someone, become a powerful force in Your kingdom,
and brighten up my own life—all at the same time?
 FAITH OVER FRET
S<@
‘Tm convinced: You can do anything and everything.
Nothing and no one can upset your plans.”
Jos 42:2 Msc

od has made you certain promises. You can find them in

His Word. But to those promises you need to add your
faith. You must be convinced that God can and will do
anything and everything, that no one can mess up His plans
for you and the rest of His creation. When you have such
certainty, your faith will win over your fretting every time!
To shore up such faith that God’s Word trumps your
worries, remember what He said in Isaiah 55:11 (msc): “The
words that come out of my mouth [will] not come back
~empty-handed. They'll do the work I sent them to do, they'll
complete the assignment I gave them.”
Don't worry. God promises to make good on His
promises. You have His word on it!

Help me shore up my faith, Lord. Show me how to grow

in certainty that You will do what Youve promised to do
in my life. That no one can mess up Your plans for me!
 NEW HOPE EVERY MORNING
S68
Theres one other thing I remember, and remembering,
I keep a grip on hope: Gov’ loyal love couldnt have run
out, his merciful love couldn't have dried up. They're
created new every morning. How great your faithfulness!
LAMENTATIONS 3:2I-22 MSG

‘aN may find that some wounds seem harder to heal than
others or that some of the same worries keep cropping up.
Take heart. Keep your grip on hope by remembering that
God’s love and mercy never run out or dry up. Every morning
Your creator has a new supply that you can access through
spending time in His Word, praying, and meditating. Just
give God room and time to speak through the Spirit. Open
yourself to some new thoughts. God, in His faithfulness, will
meet you just where you need Him the most.

Lord, in times of doubt, trial, and worry, remind me that

You are always there for me with a new supply of love and
mercy every morning. Speak deep into my heart. And I
will praise Your never-ending faithfulness to me!
 ROCK ON IN GOD'S TRUTH
are
For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter;
in the secret place ofHis tent will He hide me;
He will set me high upon a rock.
PSALM 27:5 AMPC

hen you are filled with worries, torn up by troubles,

there’s only one place to go: to God in prayer. Run to
Him. Meld your spirit with His Spirit. Feel Jesus’ love and
compassion. Let your worries slip off of you and onto Him.
See yourself as hiding in the shelter of God’s love. God
pulls you up and sets you upon the rock, high above your
earthly cares, all the problems, dangers, and trials that want
to drag you down.
As you stand upon the rock, God whispers His encour-
agement, reminding you that youre a strong Christian
woman, a sister of Jesus, a beloved daughter of a king, and
a conduit of God’s Spirit. Rock on in His truth!

Im running to You, Lord. Hide me in Your secret place.

Lift me up to the rock. Remind me who I am in You!
 GOD RAINS BLESSINGS
h-

Blessed be the Lord, the God ofIsrael, Who has fulfilled

with His hands what He promised with His mouth.
2 CHRONICLES 6:4 AMPC

he land was experiencing a great famine when the Lord said

Are the prophet Elijah, “Go, show yourself to Ahab, and I
will send rain upon the earth” (1 Kings 18:1 ampc). Elijah
followed God’s command and eventually said to King Ahab,
“Go up, eat and drink, for there is the sound of abundance
of rain” (1 Kings 18:41 ampc). Then Elijah went to the top
of Mount Carmel, bowed down to the ground, and put his
face between his knees.
Six times Elijah told his servant to go and look toward
the sea. And each time the servant came back, saying he'd
seen nothing. But the seventh time, he saw a cloud that was
followed by torrential rains.
Don’t let worry and frustration cloud your wonder at
what God has said He'll do. Just keep looking. God will do
“with His hands what He promised with His mouth.”

Im believing in Your promise to me, Lord.

I know Youll rain down Your blessing!

toll)
 SWEET-SMELLING INCENSE
M8
Is anyone crying for help?
Gop is listening, ready to rescue you.
PsALM 34:17 MSG

© you sometimes wonder if God is listening to you? Do

D you worry your prayers are falling on deaf ears?
Dont. It’s the evil one who wants you to think God
neither hears nor cares about your worries, problems, and
questions. It’s the father of lies’ aim to drive a wedge between
you and the Lord. Yet the truth is that every word you utter
in prayer rises up to God like sweet-smelling incense (see
Revelation 8:4).
As you go to God in prayer today, imagine Him eagerly
waiting to hear what you have to say. See Him hanging on
every word. Then take the time to listen to His response. His
words will rescue you, bringing you ever closer to Him.

“Gob, come close. Come quickly! Open your ears—its my

voice you ve hearing! Treat my prayer as sweet incense rising;
my raised hands are my evening prayers” (Psalm 141:1—2 msc).
 WORDLESS PRAYERS
‘<4
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not
know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself
intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
ROMANS 8:26 ESV

ometimes your worries and troubles may be so burdensome

) that you find yourself not knowing how to put your pleas
to God into words. That’s where the Holy Spirit comes in. He
knows just what your heart, soul, mind, and spirit are trying
to express and delivers your yearnings to God.
C. S. Lewis wrote that one ofhis rules about prayer is “to
pray without words when I am able, but to fall back on words
when tired or otherwise below par.”*
The point is never to avoid prayer because you don’t
know how to put your petitions into words. Just go to God
as you are. Sit before Him, allowing Him to enter in. Raise
your spirit to His, and all things will be made clear—for you
and for God.

Im coming to You, Lord, for a spirit-to-Spirit talk,

resting in Your presence, knowing You will
understand all that lies within me. Amen.
*C. S. Lewis, The Collected Letters of C.S. Lewis, Volume III: Narnia, Cambridge, and Joy 1950-1963.
Copyright © 2007 by C. S. Lewis Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved. Used with permission of HarperCollins
Publishers. Yours, Jack: Spiritual Direction from C. S. Lewis. Copyright © 2008 by C. S, Lewis Pte. Ltd.
All rights reserved. Used with permission of HarperCollins Publishers.
8 oy
 THE REALITY OF FAITH
Ss
Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed)
of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things
[we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith
perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].
HEBREWS II:1 AMPC

Ww is often prompted by fear, which some people say

stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. Yet God would
have you overcome those worries and fears with faith in Him
and His Word. Faith is not wishful thinking but knowing God
has made certain promises to you and that He will keep those
promises. So you can accept them as your present reality even
if you do not yet perceive them.
As you read the Bible, you begin to see and understand
that all God has said and promised came to pass for those
who believed. And this same fact holds true for you today.
So let go of fears and worries, and hang on to faith and hope.
God is already working on your behalf, transforming His
promises into your reality even as you read these words.

I believe, Lord. T believe.

 BOLDLY BELIEVING
Ns
Ifyou dont know what youve doing, pray to the Father.
He loves to help. Youll get his help, and wont be
condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly,
believingly, without a second thought.
JAMES 1:5 MSG

od loves bold pray-ers—people who come to Him

believing, who have no doubt in their mind that God
will give them the wisdom and help they need just when they
need it.
In this chapter, James (Jesus’ brother) goes on to talk
about those who doubt, writing, “People who ‘worry their
prayers’ are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you're
going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at
sea, keeping all your options open” (James 1:6-8 msc). In
other words, God delights in people who boldly come to
Him in faith, holding no doubt in their minds.
Ask and believe, and you will receive all the guidance
and help you need from the Master, trusting Him more than
your world or your own abilities.

Lord, Im trusting You—and only You—for the

help and wisdom I need. Show me the way.

84
 WORDS OF LIFE
Me
Remember what you said to me, your servant—
I hang on to these words for dear life! These words hold
me up in bad times; yes, your promises rejuvenate me.
PsALM I19:49—50 MSG

hen youre going through a hard time, burdened by

worries, there is only one place where you can find
comfort: God’s Word. It is there alone that you'll find your
strength, nourishment, comfort, and hope.
If you're so troubled and worried that you can’t even
think, the best Bible book to go to is the Psalms. It’s like
reading someone’s personal journal. The psalmists write of
their troubles, fears, doubts, worries, and hardships. Yet they
| find reasons to praise God for all the wonderful things He is
doing and has done in the past and they are certain He will
do in the future.
Hang on to God’s words. They will speak to your heart,
lift your spirit, and soothe your soul.

Dear God, I long for Your comfort. Show me in

Your Word what You would have me read, know,
| and study. Hold me up with Your precious words!

85
 LOOKING T0 JESUS
S58
Let us strip offand throw aside every encumbrance
(unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly
and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run
with patient endurance and steady and active persistence
the appointed course of the race that is set before us,
looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus.
HEBREWS 12:1—2 AMPC

Ithough today’s verse seems extraordinarily long, it gets

A right to the heart of the matter of worry and what to do
about it.
Many faith-walkers that have gone before you have
proven the truth of God. Their example should be enough to
prompt you to strip off worry and anything else that hinders
your own walk in Christ. View worry as just a distraction,
something that keeps you from living in God’s light and
truth. And see Jesus as your focal point—in life and in prayer.

Jesus, thank You for not just saving me from death but from
the fears and worries that dog womankind. Help me keep
my eyes on You alone and walk Your way in truth.
 FELLOW WORRIERS
Se
Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath
to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your
hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing
yourselves to be agitated and disturbed. . .and unsettled. ]
JOHN 14:27 AMPC

ately you've found yourself in a pretty good place, each day

dutifully handing your worries over to God and tapping
into Jesus’ peace through prayer. But then someone comes
along venting his or her own worries. Before you know it,
the worries you thought youd left behind are rearing up all
over again. What’s a woman to do?
Be a good listener, but don’t let someone else’s fears trig-
ger your own. Simply pray for your fellow worrier with the
realization that his or her worries are what they see as truth.
But you know better. For your truth lies in the Word of life.
You have Jesus to give you the peace you need and the wisdom
to know that, in God, all is truly well.

With You, Jesus, Im a fellow warrior not a worrier!

 A GREAT CALM
Se
And He arose and rebuked the wind and said to the sea,
Hush now! Be still (muzzled)! And the wind ceased
(sank to rest as ifexhausted by its beating) and there was
[immediately] a great calm (a perfect peacefulness).
Mark 4:39-40 AMPC

esus suggested He and the disciples take the boats to the

J other side of the lake. On the way, Jesus fell asleep in the
stern even after a huge storm rose up and water started fill-
ing the boats!
So the disciples woke Jesus, saying, “Don’t you care if
we're about to die?” That's when Jesus got up, calmed the
storm, and then asked the disciples, “Where is your faith?”
When worries start to flood into your life, allow faith
to anchor you. Remind yourself of Jesus’ love and power
and of the words of Minister Lloyd John Ogilvie, who said,
“Sometimes the Lord rides out the storm with us and other
times He calms the restless sea around us. Most of all, He
calms the storm inside us in our deepest inner soul.”

Lord, calm the storm deep within me.

 GOOD SPIRITUALITY
S68
E Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted
continually (always); be unceasing in prayer [praying
perseveringly]; thank [God] in everything [no matter
what the circumstances may be, be thankful and
give thanks], for this is the will of God for you.
1 [HESSALONIANS 5:16—-18 AMPC

nventor William Painter said, “Saying thank you is more

|than good manners. It is good spirituality.” The apostle
Paul, author of Thessalonians, is in complete agreement.
Instead of worrying, God wants you to rejoice continually,
to pray without ceasing, and to thank God for everything—
“no matter what the circumstances may be.” That may sound
like a really tall order, but if that’s what God wants and wills
you to do, He'll give you the power and strength to do it!
Besides, if you begin to spend all your time rejoicing, praying,
and thanking God, you won't have time to worry!

Help me, Lord, to seek constant joy in You. To pray

continually, giving You my worries as soon as they
creep into my mind then leaving them in Your hands.
I thank You no matter what happens or when!

g9
 REGAINING A FOOTHOLD OF FAITH
$4 @
No:

When I said, “My feet are slipping,” your mercy, O Lorb,

continued to hold me up. When I worried about many
things, your assuring words soothed my soul.
PSALM 94:18-19 GW

hen you start to slip into worrying, when your feet of

faith start to lose their purchase, tell God all about it.
Acknowledge to yourself that His kindness and compassion
will help you regain a foothold. Allow His words to soothe
your soul and nurture your spirit.
No matter when worry, trouble, or danger strikes, God
is right there with you in the midst of things. He promises
He'll never leave your side.
Norman Vincent Peale wrote, “Frequently remind your-
self that God is with you, that He will never fail you, that
you can count upon Him. Say these words, “God is with me,
helping me.’ ” As you say these words, envision God right
next to you, and your faith will prevail.

Lord, thank You for always being there when I need You, loving
me, holding me up, helping me out, and soothing my soul.
 KNOWING GOD
Me
a

“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right

now, and dont get worked up about what may or may
not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with
whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”
MatTTHEW 6:34 MSG

he human imagination has a way of leading you astray by

(eae up with a myriad of different scenarios that may
or may not become your reality. But Jesus says a believer’s
attention should be focused on God and where He’s working
today, in this moment, not on tomorrow and its uncertain-
ties, knowing God will help with whatever happens when it
happens.
But how do you get there from here? Move closer to
God. Learn all you can about Him. Know Him. And your
worries about tomorrow will flee.
Author Corrie ten Boom said, “Never be afraid to
trust an unknown future to a known God.” Wise words for
today’s—and tomorrow’ss—woman.

Help me, Lord, to keep my focus on You and what

You're doing right now. Im trusting my unknown
future to You, the God I know and love.

9}
 REFUGE, SHIELD, HOPE, AND PEACE
Se
You are my refuge and my shield; your word
is my source ofhope. ... Those who love your
instructions have great peace and do not stumble.
PsALM I19:114, 165 NLT

hen youre worried, lost, and confused, when you don’t

know where to go or who to turn to, go to God and open
His Word. There you will find the refuge you so desperately
seek, the safety you need, the hope you thirst for, and the
compass you crave.
You can run to God no matter where you are for He
is as near to you as your breath. Within His presence and
power, you will be shielded. There you can wait until you
have gained His wisdom and peace, until you know what to
say or do. God will speak into your heart. He will make sure
you do not stumble as you follow His instructions and take
the next steps.

Thank You, Lord, for being my constant refuge, shield,

and hope. In Your Word alone do I find wisdom and peace.

92
 THE OPENER OF EYES, HEARTS,
AND THE WORD
Ne
hire

“Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to

us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?”
LUKE 24:32 ESV

fter Jesus’ death, two of His disciples, confused and sor-

A rowful, headed to Emmaus and talked about what had
happened. As they were walking, Jesus joined them, yet they
did not recognize Him. Hearing their story about Him,
Jesus “interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things
concerning himself” (Luke 24:27 Esv). Later, when He
broke bread with them, “their eyes were opened” (Luke 24:31
ESv), and Jesus vanished. It was then they realized why their
hearts had burned within them as He'd spoken to them.
Like those disciples, at times you may feel confused,
alone, and worried about what has happened or will happen.
But you can take heart, because Jesus comes alongside to
explain things to you. He'll give you hope—for He still walks
and talks with you!

Jesus, sometimes Ifeel all alone. Help me to

recognize Your presence walking with me.
Open my eyes and heart as I seek Your Word.
 GOD'S ARM
ne
Be the arm [of Your servants—their strength and defense]
every morning, our salvation in the time of trouble.
ISAIAH 33:2 AMPC

uthor E. M. Bounds wrote, “If God is not first in our

A thoughts and efforts in the morning, he will be in the last
place the remainder of the day.” The Bible says King David
sought God’s guidance through early morning prayer (see
Psalm 143:8). Even Jesus, long before the sun rose, went out
alone to a deserted place and prayed to God (see Mark 1:35).
It's obvious that starting your day with prayer, seeking
to make God your primary guide and focus instead of your
own self, sets you on the right course. Before you're out the
door, you'll be armed with God’s strength, protection, and
saving power. The volume of His voice in your heart, mind,
and soul will then rise above all other sounds and whistles,
keeping your feet on the right path and worries and other
distractors at bay (see Isaiah 33:3).

Lord, be my strength and defense every morning.

 WISDOM OVER WORRY
6
Listen well to my words; tune your ears to my voice.
Keep my message tn plain view at all times. Concentrate!
Learn it by heart! Those who discover these words live,
really live; body and soul, theyre bursting with health.
PROVERBS 4:20—22 MSG

avid writes that worrying leads to evil and harm (see Psalm
37:8). His son Solomon tells you God’s wisdom leads
to an awesome life. So if you want to have the best life, dig
into God’s wisdom. You'll find it throughout the Bible but
especially in Proverbs. There King Solomon provides insight
into how to deal with everyday issues, including how to work,
act, talk, think, curb your anger, and so much mote.
In the verses above, Solomon strongly suggests you learn
some verses by heart. Perhaps you could start by reading
Proverbs every day. When you come to a verse that really
speaks to you, that gives you guidance or peace about a
situation, memorize it. Before you know it, God’s wisdom
will stand in place of your worry.

I want to live a good life, Lord.

Help me replace my worry with Your Word!
 WARDING OFF WORRIES
ae
O Lorp God, my savior, I cry out to you during
the day and at night. Let my prayer come into
your presence. Turn your ear to hear my cries.
PsaLM 88:1—2 Gw

ynthia Lewis says, “If your day is hemmed in with prayer,

(°it is less likely to come unraveled.” Let’s take that a step
further and say that if your day is hemmed in with prayer,
youre less likely to come unraveled! |
Chances are you brush your teeth in the morning and
again in the evening. You were taught to do this as a child and
now do it automatically, without even thinking. And that’s
a good thing, for brushing teeth helps ward off cavities.
So why not start the practice of praying in the morning
and then again in the evening. As you do this day after day,
it too will become something you do automatically. And
it'll be a good thing because doing so will help ward off wor-
ries, giving you a focused mind by day and a restful one at
night!

Lord, let my prayer come into

Your loving presence day and night.
 GOD ONLY KNOWS
Se
For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the
outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.
t SAMUEL 16:7 AMPC

verybody wants to be liked. It’s only natural. Yet problems

may arise when you assume you know what someone else
is thinking about you or your ideas, comments, and sugges-
tions, and you begin to worry about what you do to please
him or her.
Although people can give you clues—through expres-
sion, voice, body language, attitude, or demeanor—as to how
they think or feel about you—only God can truly see within
peoples’ hearts and minds to know what they're really think-
ing (see 1 Kings 8:39; John 2:24—25; Matthew 9:4).
God doesn’t want you to worry about the opinions or
thoughts of others or to let them hold you back from what
He’s calling you to do or say. Your job is to please Him alone
(see 1 Thessalonians 2:4). He'll take care of the rest.

Help me, Lord, to not worry about what others may

think about me but to live and serve You alone!
 THE PEACE OF GOD'S KINGDOM
64
Now may the Lord ofpeace Himself grant you His peace
(the peace ofHis kingdom) at all times and in all ways
[under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes].
2 THESSALONIANS 3:16 AMPC

he philosopher Michel de Montaigne, who lived in the

1500s, said: “My life has been filled with terrible mis-
fortune; most of which never happened.” Chances are that if
you looked closely at your own life, you'd agree.
And there are modern-day statistics to back up Mon-
taigne’s statement. A recent study says 40 percent of the
things you worry about will never happen; 30 percent are
in the past, which you can't change; 12 percent are need-
less worries about your health; and 10 percent are trivial
worries that fall into the miscellaneous category. That leaves
you with 8 percent of worries that have actual substance in
your life.
So tell your worries to hit the road, and walk in God's
path of peace.

Lord ofpeace, fill me with Your presence and the peace of

Your kingdom at all times and in all ways, whatever comes.
 ALWAYS THERE
‘8
Even ifmy father and mother abandon me,
the Lorb will hold me close.
PSALM 27:10 NLT

_ J) clationships with others can be difficult at times. Through

R some misunderstanding or deliberate affront, some family
_ members can become estranged. Others may find themselves
_ divorced. Even friends can fade away. And then, of course,
some loved ones are lost through death.
Yet there's no need to worry about being alone. Even
if your mother and father abandon you, God will always _
_ be there to hold you close. For He, your eternal and loving
_ Father, promises to take you in and care for you. And His
Son, your Friend Jesus, will stick closer to you than a brother
_ (see Proverbs 18:24).
When you feel as if you're all alone—even when in a
crowded room—don' worry. Go to God. Revel in His pres-
ence. Feel His light and love within. He will never leave you
to go it alone.

Thank You, Lord, for being the love and light

thats forever with me—from beginning to end.
Hold me close as I lie in Your arms.
 MOMENT BY MOMENT
6
Whatever you do, put your whole heart and soul into it,
as into work done for God, and not merely for men—
knowing that your real reward, a heavenly one, will come
from God, since you are actually employed by Christ.
COLOSSIANS 3:23—24 PHILLIPS

re you living in the future or in the present moment?

In his book The Weight of Glory, C. S. Lewis writes,
“Happy work is best done by the man who takes his long-
term plans somewhat lightly and works from moment to
moment ‘as to the Lord.’ It is only our daily bread that we are
encouraged to ask for. The present is the only time in which
any duty can be done or any grace received.”*
When worry begins to creep into your day, check to see
where youre living. If it’s in the future, take a step back. Then
ask God to draw you into the present moment. He'll get you
back on course.

Lord, help me stay living in the present moment,

where You and my peace reside.

“The Weight of Glory: And Other Addresses. Copyright © 1949, C. S. Lewis Pte. Ltd. Copyright
renewed © 1976, revised 1980 C. S. Lewis Pte. Ltd. HarperCollins Publishers.

100
 GIVE GOD A CALL
ts
For you, O Lord, are good andforgiving, abounding in
steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lorb,
to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of
my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me.
PsaLM 86:5-7 ESV

© one is perfect—except God, of course. But you're a

mere human. You're bound to make a few mistakes. There
will probably be times when you wrong yourself, God, or a
fellow human being. Before you realize it, you're caught in
a whirl of worry—about the effects of your misstep, what
God and others may be thinking about you (and your
words and actions), how or what you'll say when you ask for
forgiveness, and so on.
To break free of this whirl of worry, call on God. Remind
yourself how forgiving He is, how much He loves you. Ask
Him to hear your prayer and to bestow His forgiveness, and
then expect His answer.

Lord, Im calling on You, counting on Your love and forgiveness.

Hear my prayer. Tell me how to handle this situation.
 WELL EMPLOYED
‘6
Study this Book ofInstruction continually. Meditate on it day
and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it.
Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
JosHUuA 1:8 NLT

nlike worry, meditation will help you prosper and succeed!

You may find it hard to pull yourself out of the world and
into God. Fortunately, those who've gone before are here to
help. About meditation, St. Francis advises:

Ifthe heart wanders or is distracted, bring it back to

the point quite gently and replace it tenderly in its
Master's presence. And even ifyou did nothing during
the whole ofyour hour but bring your heart back and
place it again in our Lord’ presence, though it went
away every time you brought it back, your hour will
be very well employed.

If you're new to meditation, begin with five minutes a day,

and then build up to ten. You'll soon find the peace you crave.

“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my

heart be pleasing to you, O Lord” (Psalm 19:14 Nir).
 UNFAMILIAR PATHS
M6
I will lead the blind on unfamiliar roads. I will lead them on
unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light in front of
them. I will make rough places smooth. These are the things
I will do for them, and I will never abandon them.
IsAIAH 42:16 GW

1)yet about what may happen in the future, what

to do in the present, or how to get over the past can
make you feel as if you're blind, walking in the dark, lost
and confused. Yet you need not worry about stumbling in
the dark, unable to see the road ahead of you because God
promises to lead you down unfamiliar paths. In fact, He'll
transform the darkness into light right in front of your eyes!
He'll make rocky places smooth. And He will never aban-
don you.
Because God promises that He’ll always be with you,
you can cease your worry and say with author Mary Gardiner
Brainard, “I would rather walk with God in the dark than
go alone in the light.”

Im with You, Lord, all the way!

Lead me down Your path, into Your light!

103
 GOD ONE STEP AHEAD
Ne
I will answer them before they even call to me.
While they are still talking about their needs,
I will go ahead and answer their prayers!
IsAIAH 65:24 NLT

ow wonderful to have a God that answers you before you

H even cry out for Him! That while you're busy pouring
out your worries, presenting God your what-if scenarios, and
trying to put words to all you feel and are concerned about,
He is already answering your petitions!
That’s just who God is! That’s just how much He cares
about you! If you memorize today’s verse and truly believe it,
you can break up whatever worries come your way. You will
trust the One who answers before you speak, the One who
sees all the concerns, problems, and heartaches and is ready to
soothe, solve, and salve.

Lord, Im taking up my shield offaith in You, knowing

that You are already going before me, answering my prayer,
solving my problem, and healing my heart. I praise Your name!

104
 LIVING CAREFREE
Ne
So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs.
Gods strong hand is on you; hell promote you at the right
time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
1 PETER 5:6—7 MSG

od doesn’t want you worrying about the who, what, when,

where, how, and why in your life. He doesn’t want you
to be unhappy where you are right now, in this moment. He
wants you to totally trust Him, to know and believe He has a
plan for your life—and it’s so much better than anything you
ever dreamed or imagined.
The same strong hand God used to part the waters and
lead the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land is
the same hand that is now upon you.
Trust God’s timing. Live without care before Him by
handing all your worries over to Him. You're His precious
cargo. He’s cradling you, loving you, protecting you. Just rest
and relax in Him.

Take my worries, Lord. Then hold me until I can

feel Your peace, love, and strong hand upon me.
 MAKE UP YOUR MIND
Je
I have cheerfully made up my mind to be proud of my
weaknesses, because they mean a deeper experience of the
power of Christ. I can even enjoy weaknesses, suffering,
privations, persecutions and difficulties for Christs sake.
For my very weakness makes me strong in him.
2 CORINTHIANS 12:10 PHILLIPS

od gives many gifts to His faithful followers, one of which

(5is that no matter how weak you are, no matter how much
you suffer or how often you worry, your very weaknesses give
Christ the chance to shine through you. For this formula to
work, though, you must have faith and then make up your
mind to live it.
God moves when youre truly helpless. He provides
when you have no more resources left. He will give you the
power to overcome all things—even worry. So revel in God,
thanking Him no matter what comes. He has all the strength
you need to triumph—to His glory!

I've made up my mind, Lord! Im going to be content

no matter what! In You I have the strength to endure all!

106
 GOD MEETS YOUR NEEDS
M6
The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me],
I shall not lack. He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender]
green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.
PSALM 23:1—2 AMPC

n 1943, Abraham Maslow proposed a theory in psychology

|called Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. He explained that
there are five levels of human needs. The first level, which
is physiological—food, water, warmth, and rest—must be
satisfied before individuals can take care of needs higher up.
Amazingly enough, those are the same needs David
covers in the first two verses of Psalm 23! David says he
doesn’t want for anything because God is his shepherd who
feeds, guides, and shields him. He makes David lie down and
rest. He leads David to water.
So there’s no “need” to worry about how your needs will
be met. God will take care of everything! Why? Because He's
not just any shepherd—He’s the Great Shepherd!

Knowing that You will meet all my needs is a load off

my mind, Lord. Thank You for being my Great Shepherd!
 GOD WALKS WITH YOU
6

Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the

shadow ofdeath, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me.
PsaLM 23:4 AMPC

od not only satisfies your basic human needs for food,

water, warmth, and rest but also walks with you, equipped
with two tools to make sure you're safe and heading the right
way. He uses the first tool, His shepherd’s rod, to stave off
any force, power, or evil that threatens your life. He uses the
second, His staff, to guide you through the shadows and onto
the right path.
So the next time you're worried about your safety or where
to take your next step, pray to God—the all-powerful Father
and Shepherd who loves and adores you—remembering
He's well equipped to protect you and more than ready to
guide you.

Lord, Ifeel Your presence by my side.

With You walking alongside me, I know I'll
be safe and heading down the right path.

108
 ASLEEP AND AWAKE IN GOD
Se
When you go, they [the words ofyour parents’ God]
shall lead you; when you sleep, they shall keep you;
and when you waken, they shall talk with you.
PROVERBS 6:22 AMPC

ome people's parents make it a point to make sure their

y)children are versed in God’s power-filled words. Other
parents don't, but hopefully a child will end up learning
God’s wisdom through “spiritual” parents. Either way, know-
ing God’s Word and following it can keep you, Father God’s
child, from letting your worries careen out of control.
Wherever you go, allow God’s Word to lead you down
the right path. While you sleep, allow it to comfort and
protect you. And when you wake, seek God’s Word through
reading and His voice through prayer, allowing both to talk
to you, giving you all the wisdom you need to keep from
stumbling, to make the choices God would have you make
throughout your day.

Heavenly Father, help me to lean heavily on Your Word.

Talk to me, guide me, comfort and protect me.
 THE RIGHT WOMAN FOR THE JOB
a
Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go... °”
God answered, “I will be with you.”
ExopbUus 3:1I-12 Gw

rom a burning bush, God appeared to Moses, telling him

ks free His people. But Moses was full of worry and self-
doubt, so he asked God, “Who am I that I should go?” Then
he came up with a bunch of excuses why he wasn‘ the right
man for the job.
Perhaps Moses didn’t know that whoever God calls, He’s
already prepared.
Moses was the only Hebrew who could go in front of
the Pharaoh because he'd been an Egyptian prince for forty
years. And, having spent another forty years shepherding in
the wilderness, Moses was familiar with the terrain. On top
of that, God said Hed be with him.
Is God calling you to do something youre not sure you
can do? Are you worried you wont be able to handle it? Don't
be. Whoever God calls, He’s prepared. And just as God was
with Moses, He’s with you.

Lord, I know You've prepared mefor

where You call me. Help me trust in You.

110
 WHAT'S IN YOUR HAND?
Se
Moses answered, But behold, they will not believe me or
listen to and obey my voice; for they will say, The Lord
has not appeared to you. And the Lord said to him,
What is that in your hand? And he said, A rod.
Exopus 4:I—2 AMPC

o God has called you and, like Moses, you still have
worries, self-doubts. That’s when God calls your attention
to the tools you already have, the ones youre very familiar
with, the ones in your hand or your company.
For Moses, one tool was his shepherd’s staff, which hed
later use to part waters, lead people, strike rocks, turn rivers
to blood. Your tool might be your pen, voice, talent, vehicle,
knitting needle. Another of Moses’ tools was his brother,
Aaron, one who could speak well.
Instead of worrying about how you'll do something, look
to see what you have in your hand or who you have at your
side. Pray for God to reveal your tools, and then use them.

What, Lord, would You have me use to serve You?

Reveal my tools for Your glory!
 DESIRES MET
Ma
Whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his
commandments and do what pleases him. And this is his
commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus
Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.
I JOHN 3:22—23 ESV

orried you wont get what you've been praying for? You
WWE ee be. You will get what you desire if you follow
God’s commands and do what pleases Him.
That means you must believe in Jesus: that He walked
upon this earth, was God’s Son, performed miracles, was full
of wisdom, and is the example youre to follow. The second
command is to love others—including God and yourself.
When you're meeting those requirements, when you
have the faith God commands, you're living in God’s will and
so are asking for the things God’s hoping you'll ask for and
has ready and waiting for you!
Examine your life. Talk to God. Live His way. And your
desires will be more than met! /

Help me examine my life, Lord.

I want to live—and pray—Your way.
 ALL 15 WELL
Me
She said, “All is well.”
2 KINGS 4:23 ESV

childless woman went out of her way to provide a room

where Elisha, a man of God, could rest when he came
into town. To repay her, Elisha told her she'd have a baby.
And she did. A boy. But then he died. So she laid her son
on Elisha’s bed and went to find Elisha. When her husband
asked why she was going out, she simply said, “All is well.”
She repeated the phrase to Elisha’s servant, who, seeing her
coming, asked if anything was wrong (see 2 Kings 4:26 Esv).
And in the end, all was well, for Elisha brought the boy
back to life.
Imagine what would've happened if she'd been paralyzed
by worry. If she'd kept repeating, “All is wrong.” The point?
Go the way of this woman. No matter what’s happening,
know God has a plan. Somehow, He'll make everything turn
out right.

Lord, I know You make all things work out to Your

good. Help me adopt the mantra that no matter
what things look like to me, all is well in You.
 PRAYING HANDS
Ss
You, O Lord, are a shield
for me, my glory, and the lifter
of my head... . I lay down and slept; I wakened again,
for the Lord sustains me. I will not be afraid.
PSALM 3:3, 5-6 AMPC

he world can be a pretty scary place. It’s enough to make

ee wring your hands, leading you to worry about what
may be coming around the next corner. But fortunately for
you, God is on your side.
Imagine God being a shield that totally surrounds you.
That He honors you with His company. That He gives you
joy and will deliver you, even in the worst of times, so that
you can keep your head above the waters.
Instead of wringing your hands, fold them together and
pray. Rest and sleep easy, knowing God sustains you. With
Him in your corner, you need not be afraid. His blessing and
love are upon you!

Youve my shield, Lord. You fill me with joy and keep my

head in the right place. Knowing that You're sustaining me,
I rest and sleep easy. As I pray, my fears fade.
 WATCH AND WAIT

In the morning You hear my voice, O Lord; in the

morning I prepare [a prayer, a sacrifice]
for You
and watch and wait [for You to speak to my heart].
PSALM 5:3 AMPC

ne of the best places to have a Bible is right by your bed,

for then you can connect with God before your feet
even hit the floor. To help you springboard into this idea of
making reading the Word a morning habit, begin by reading
the psalms, specifically Psalm 5:3.
It acknowledges that God hears your voice in the morn-
ing as you prepare a prayer for Him. It reminds you not to
just read some words and then jump out of bed, but to pray
“and watch and wait” for God to speak to your heart. To
give you the exact words that will keep your mind free from
worry, give your soul peace, and calm your spirit.

In the morning You hear my voice, O Lord; in this

moment I prepare a prayer
for You. And now I
watch and wait for You to speak into my heart.
 NO WORRY LINES

Let all those who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice;
let them ever sing and shout for joy, because You make a
covering over them and defend them; let those also who love
Your name bejoyful in You and be in high spirits.
PsALM 5:11 AMPC

t's difficult to be joyful in God and in high spirits when

worry is clouding not only your day but your judgment.
The fact of the matter is that worry not only mars you within
but without. You've heard of worry lines, haven't you? Who
needs them? Why not replace them with laugh lines?
Today, do just that by running to God. Put your trust in
Him alone. You'll soon find yourself breaking out in song and
shouting for joy. As you trust in God, leaving all your worries
in His hands, He covers you with His love and protection
and leads you to triumph. As you live in and laugh with God,
your worry lines will soon fade.

Im running to You, God, knowing You're my path to joy!

116
 GOD'S SHIELD OF LOVE
M8
For You, Lord, will bless the [uncompromisingly] righteous [him
who is upright and in right standing with You]; as with a shield
You will surround him with goodwill (pleasure and favor).
PSALM 5:12 AMPC

hen you begin seeking God early, expecting Him to

speak to your heart, taking refuge in and trusting Him
(see Psalm 5:3, 11), not only will your worries take a backseat
to God’s presence in your life, but He will bless you in so
many other ways! He will show you the way to walk and talk.
He'll clear the path before you, be with you just where you
are, and watch your back from behind. He will surround you
with His shield of love and bless you with His favor!
As your worries fall like scales from your eyes, you will
be able to see all God is doing in your life, all the blessings
He is putting in your path. Your life will be full of pleasure
behind God’s shield of abundant love.

Lord, surround me with Your shield of love

so that my eyes may see Your blessings in my life.
 BLESSED 15 THE WOMAN
WHO SEEKS WISDOM
eo
Those who look for me find me... . Blessed the woman,
who listens to me, awake and ready for me each morning,
alert and responsive... . When you find me, you find life,
real life, to say nothing of GoDs good pleasure.
PROVERBS 8:18, 34-35 MSG

ady Wisdom was with God before He even formed the

i earth. She was brought forth before the seas, mountains,
and heavens. And she’s filled with all the knowledge and
understanding you need to keep worries at bay.
But there’s a hitch. You need to /ook for her. To listen to
her. To seek her each morning. To be alert to her presence
and respond to her advice. When you do, Wisdom will bless
you with more than material wealth, which is fleeting at best.
She will bless you with spiritual wealth. You'll be living a life
worth living, a true life, as the recipient of God’s favor.
Today, replace your worry with God’s Wisdom, and
begin living for real. .

Reveal Your truths to me.

Give me Your wisdom to replace my worry.

118
 PREVAIL IN PROMISES
See
“Dont worry about a thing. Go ahead and do what
youve said. But first make a small biscuit for me
and bring it back here. Then go ahead and make
a meal from whats left for you and your son.”
1 KINGS 17:13 MSG

he prophet Elijah approached a poor widow gathering

firewood. He asked her to bring him water and something
to eat. She told him all she had left was “a handful of flour in
a jar and a little oil in a bottle,” just enough to “make a last
meal” for herself and her son (1 Kings 17:12 sc).
But Elisha told her not to worry, that God promised her
oil and flour would not run out before God sent rain to end
the drought. Hearing those words, the widow put aside her
worries, waved off her parental instincts, and obeyed Elijah.
For the next two years, God provided as promised.
Have faith. God will provide as promised.

Lord, I never want my faith to run dry.

I believe in You and Your promises!
 ARROW PRAYERS
8

The king said to me, “What are you requesting?” So I prayed

to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, “Ifitpleases
the king, and ifyour servant has found favor in your sight,
that you send me to Judah. . .that I may rebuild it.”
NEHEMIAH 2:4—5 ESV

hen Nehemiah, the king of Persia’s wine taster, received

word Jerusalem’s wall was broken and her gates burned
down, he wept then fasted and prayed to God for days.
When he later entered the king’s presence, he was still sad.
So the king, seeing his cupbearer’s face, asked him what the
matter was. This frightened Nehemiah, for servants were to
be cheerful before their sovereign.
So Nehemiah sent up an arrow prayer—quick and to
the point—to God, knowing he'd get courage and guidance
just when he needed it.
Take your challenges to God as soon as they come.
Before they can turn into worries, shoot up an arrow prayer,
knowing your all-powerful Father is waiting and ready to
help.

Lead me to pray to You not just daily but the

instant I need You, Lord. Make me an arrow pray-er!
 BEDTIME PRAYER
Se
In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord,
alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.
PsaLM 4:8 AMPC

ing David, the author of today’s psalm, had surely had his
K share of challenges. As a shepherd boy, he'd had to fight
lions and bears to keep his father’s sheep safe. Later he'd faced
a giant, been chased by King Saul, been betrayed by his son
Absalom, and fought countless battles.
You too have lots of challenges. Yet you have a God-
Father-King-Shepherd you can run to. One who has rescued,
encouraged, provided for, and fought for you time after
time. He’s answered your prayers, has loved you like no
other, has gifted you with eternal life, and has made you, His
daughter, a princess. You can count on Him to keep you safe,
to watch over you.
So when your head hits the pillow, override your worries
with God’s Word. Bring today’s verse to mind. Repeat it
slowly, absorbing its power, and you will find the peace you
need for a good night's sleep.

In You, loving Lord, Ifind the peace to sleep,

for You alone keep me safe and sound.
 WEAVING GOD'S WORD WITHIN
he.

Keep my words; lay up within you my commandments

[for use when needed] and treasure them. Keep my
commandments and live, and keep my law and teaching
as the apple (the pupil) ofyour eye. Bind them on
your fingers; write them on the tablet ofyour heart.
PROVERBS 7:I—3 AMPC

he more ways you work God’s Word into your very being,
lhe less youll find to worry about. In today’s passage, God
makes it clear you're to follow His words. To store up His
wisdom so you can use it when you need it. To keep your
eyes fixed on the teachings of His Son and Spirit. To write
God’s words on the back of your hand and within your heart.
Today spend time in God’s Word. Ask God to reveal
the verses He wants you to write on your heart. Meditate
on them. Implant them within you. Make them a part of
your very being, and you'll find yourself naturally doing as
He would have you do.

God, engrave Your Word upon my heart.

 PRAYING FOR ALL

I admonish and urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions,

and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all men. . .
that [outwardly] we may pass a quiet and undisturbed
life [and inwardly] a peaceable one in all godliness
and reverence and seriousness in every Way.
1 ItMOTHY 2:I—2 AMPC

here may be some people in positions of power or author-

{pa with whom you disagree or feel uncomfortable. There
may be some you think will lead your town, city, state, or
country down the wrong road. You worry that they don't
have the best interests of you and other people at heart.
Rather than worry about what leaders may or may not
do next, the apostle Paul urges you to go to God. To pray
for “kings and all who are in positions of authority or high
responsibility” (see 1 Timothy 2:2 ampc). For that’s the only
way you'll be able to live in peace—within and without.

I want to pray for all people in all positions, Lord.

Help mepray
for our leaders so that I can gain
Your blessing of true peace within and without.
 A HEART-TO-HEART ATTITUDE
'-@
When Solomon finished making these prayers and petitions to
the LorD, he stood up in front of the altar of the LorD, where
he had been kneeling with his hands raised toward heaven.
t KINGs 8:54 NLT

rayer is a form of worship, and everyone has their own

Lae posture. Some pray with eyes closed, hands folded,
or head bowed. King Solomon kneeled and raised his hands
toward heaven.
The point is to not judge how other people pray or
worry about what others may say about how you pray. As
the Reverend Billy Graham said, “It’s not the body’s posture
but the heart’s attitude that counts when we pray.”
Jesus told the woman at the well, “It’s who you are and
the way you live that count before God. Your worship must
engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That’s the kind of
people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply
and honestly themselves before him in their worship” (John
4:23 MSG).
Today, go before God for a heart-to-heart talk, conscious
of your own heart attitude. Look for places where you
might need to be more of who you truly are as you come
before God.
 QUALIFIED BY 60D

By ourselves we are not qualified in any way to claim that

we can do anything. Rather, God makes us qualified.
2 CORINTHIANS 3:5 GW

he world would have you believe that to be successful, you

must have a high degree of self-sufficiency, counting on
yourself alone to provide your needs. Yet such an attitude
would lead you away from God, your true and loving
provider. The God who wants you to live in Him as He lives
in you, to be dependent on Him so He can work through
you to His glory.
An attitude of self-sufficiency also leads you to worrying
about how you'll meet all your needs and keeps you from
praying to the one who provides them.
So, the next time worry comes creeping along, look
within to see if youre harboring an attitude of self-sufficiency.
Ask God to root it out so you can become the woman He
created you to be—one dependent on Him alone.

Keep me leaning on and relying on You, Lora.

For I know I can do nothing without You.
 YOUR BURDEN BEARER, DAY BY DAY
6
Blessed be the Lord, Who bears our burdens and carries
us day by day, even the God Who is our salvation!
Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
PSALM 68:19 AMPC

ow blessed you are to have a God who loves you so much

He will not only bear your burdens but will carry you!
And not just once but every single day! Knowing and truly
believing this, living as if it is true (which it is), gives you
the peace of mind, heart, body, and spirit you need to live a
fabulous life, free of worry! Yet the benefits don’t stop there.
Along with God bearing your load, He’s decided you will
be strong (Psalm 68:28, 35)!
Today give God your worries. Believe that He’s carry-
ing them—and you. ‘Then enter your day in the strength He
gives you.

Lord, my worries have been weighing me down. Thank You

so much for carrying them—and me—today and every
day. Such knowledge gives me the strength I need.
 HAPPY AND BLESSED
ae: f

“Blessed are you among women... . Oh, how

happy is the woman who believes in God,
for he does make his promises to her come true.”
LUKE 1:42, 45 PHILLIPS

abriel told Mary that God favored her and she would be
6 giving birth to His Son. When she wondered how that
would happen, the angel explained the details. Then he told
her that her once-barren cousin, Elizabeth, had conceived in
her old age. “For no promise of God can fail to be fulfilled”
(Luke 1:37 pHILILPs)!
Mary responded, “I belong to the Lord, body and
soul. . .let it happen as you say” (Luke 1:38 pHititps). Then
she went to visit Elizabeth, who called her blessed, saying,
“Happy is the woman who believes in God, for he does make
his promises to her come true.”
You too can be happy and blessed when you give up
your worries and submit yourself to God, who makes the
impossible possible and never fails to come through on His
promises!

I lift my whole self up to You, Lord, knowing You

and Your promises come true to those who believe!
 BE STILL
Ne
God is in the midst ofher; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
PSALM 46:5 ESV

o matter what troubles you're facing or what worries are

N upon your mind, you have a mighty fortress in God. He’s
your “refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of
trouble” (Psalm 46:1 Gw). Because He is living within you
and you're abiding in Him, you cannot be harmed or moved.
He brings His full power, all His angels, all His resources,
visible and invisible, material and temporal, to aid you. He
shields, empowers, and frees you.
God brings His peace to you, telling you, gently, “I’ve
got this. You need not worry.” He tells you your role in all
this. It’s to simply “let be and be still, and know (recognize
and understand) that I am God” (Psalm 46:10 ampc).
Today, make it your aim to let be and be still. Know your
God is taking care of everything. He's got this.

Oh Lord, help me understand You better.

Help me to be still, to let all things be, to let
You take care of everything—including me.
 COME AWAY WITH GOD

His left hand is under my head, and his right hand

embraces me!... My beloved speaks and says to me:
‘Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away.”
SONG OF SOLOMON 2:6, 10 ESV

od longs to have an intimate relationship with you. He

doesn’t want your worries about what may or may not
happen to become a barrier between you, to distract you from
what He can do and is doing in your life.
To tear down the wall of worry, find a quiet place. Tell
God all that’s on your mind, Relax as you imagine God right
next to you. Say, “[I can feel] his left hand under my head
and his right hand embraces me!” (Song of Solomon 2:6
AMPC). Spend as much time as youd like with Him, enjoying
His presence, listening for His voice, hearing what He has
to say. Then arise, beautiful one, and go with Him wherever
He leads.

I can feel Your left hand beneath my head,

Your right hand embracing me. Let me rest in
this peace, surrounded by Your presence and love.

129
 CONTINUAL CARE FROM ABBA
Se
I will be a Father to you, and you shall be
My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.
2 CORINTHIANS 6:18 AMPC

hen you were little, chances are you ran to your parents
when you fell and skinned your knee. They wiped away
the blood, cleaned the wound, and bandaged it up. Perhaps
they even kissed your boo-boo. Why? Because you were their
little one, their precious daughter. They loved you and took
care of you.
Now youre a woman, perhaps with children of your
own. You may even be taking care of your parents as they
once took care of you. And sometimes you find yourself
worrying, wondering, Wholl take care of me when I need help?
The answer is God.
You're God’s precious daughter. He tells you, “Even
when youre old, I'll take care of you. Even when your hair
turns gray, ll support you. I made you and will continue to
care for you. I'll support you and save you” (Isaiah 46:4 cw).
Trust God to help you when you fall—from here to
eternity.

Thank You, Daddy God, for always being there for me,
ready to help me when Ifall, from now until the end of time.

{30
 THE MASTER PLANNER
S64
We are Gods [own] handiwork. . .recreated in Christ Jesus
.. that we may do those good works which God predestined
(planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared
ahead of time], that we should walk in them |. . .for us to live].
EPHESIANS 2:10 AMPC

od, the Master Planner, had you in mind before time

began, designed you, then re-created you in Christ so you
could be a part of His grand plan. He has paths He's pre-
pared for you to take, all so you could live the good life He
made ready for you. But how can you do all God has planned,
live the amazing life He’s carved out, if you're saddled by
worry?
Youre in God’s plan, but your worries are not. So stop
wringing your hands. Give God all you can’t handle, and set-
tle down in His peace. Live “the good life which He pre-
arranged and made ready” for you to live.

Lord, Im amazed at the plans Youve made for me.

Help me leave my worries behind, settle into Your
peace, and walk down the path Youve laid out.
 LAUGHING WITHOUT FEAR
ne
She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without
fear of the future... . Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not
last; but a woman who fears the LorD will be greatly praised.
PROVERBS 31:25, 30 NLT

roverbs 31:10-31 describes the glowing attributes of God’s

eS woman, giving female followers something to aim
for. She’s trustworthy, works hard and willingly, takes care
of her household and family, considers investments, gives to
the poor, and is kind and wise. But the most striking is that
“she laughs without fear of the future”! Perhaps you're won-
dering, How can I get to where she is?
Its simple. Fear God. Know Him. Worship Him by
obeying and loving Him with all your heart, mind, body,
spirit, and soul. This will give you success in every area of
your life! Once you truly know and obey God, you will real-
ize that you really have nothing at all to worry about.

TI want to know You more, Lord, to follow, obey, and love You.
For then I too may laugh without fear of the future!
 NIGHT WATCHES

I remember You upon my bed and meditate on You in the

night watches. For You have been my help, and in the shadow
of Your wings will I rejoice. My whole being follows hard after
You and clings closely to You; Your right hand upholds me.
PsaLM 63:6—8 AMPC

t's late at night, and you should be fast asleep. But for some
|reason, youre still awake. In the quiet darkness, it’s easy to
let your mind wander into the even darker territory of worry.
But why not switch up your thought pattern and go from
worry to wonder by meditating on God?
Remember how much God has done for you. How
He protected and cared for you, helped you, and provided
all you needed to make it to this point in your day and in
your life. Rejoice in and thank Him for all the blessings He
has bestowed upon you. Then see yourself clinging to Him
as He holds you up, carries you, and pours out upon you
His strength and peace.

Hold me, Lord, as I cling to You,

absorbing Your presence and peace.
 LET PEACE REIGN
Se
T have told you these things, so that in Me you may have
[perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have
tribulation and trials and distress and frustration;
but be ofgood cheer [take courage; be confident, certain,
undaunted]! For I have overcome the world.
JOHN 16:33 AMPC

esus knows youll have times of trouble. Yet as you live in

Him, you'll find that perfect peace and confidence you need
to face them. So, no matter what has happened, is happen-
ing, or may happen, don't worry.
Instead, take courage. Live the life God has planned for
you. Have confidence in Jesus and have peace within because
He has overcome your world. He says, “I have deprived it
of power to harm you and have conquered it for you” (John
16:33 aMPC).
As you go about your tasks today, give Jesus full access to
your heart, mind, body, spirit, and soul. Allow His peace to
reign over you. In Him, you will become an overcomer.

Come live in me, Jesus. Help me overcome

my worry, and let Your peace reign within.
 IN STEP WITH GOD
N&
It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will [march] with you;
He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; [let there be no
cowardice or flinching, but] fear not, neither become broken [in
spirit—depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm].
DEUTERONOMY 31:8 AMPC

oses was saying farewell to God’s people, who would be

led into the Promised Land by Joshua. He told them
God Himself would go before them and give them victory.
He encouraged them by saying, “Be strong, courageous, and
firm; fear not nor be in terror before them, for it is the Lord
your God Who goes with you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 amrc).
As God went before His Israelites, He goes before you.
He marches with you as you enter His land of promises. Your
role is to not worry or fear but to believe God will neither
fail nor forsake you. When you trust God with all, keeping
in step with Him, you will prevail.

Im trusting in You, Lord, as we walk in step

together. Lead me to the land of Your promise.
 CROSSING SAFELY
Ie
I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I
who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”
ISAIAH 41:13 ESV

mom becomes extra vigilant when it comes to helping her

child cross the street. It is she and not the child who can
see all the cars coming, understands the rules of the road, and
knows the dangers of stepping away from the safety of the
sidewalk. Yet the child is neither fearful nor worried. She’s
totally secure with her hand in her mom's, knowing with a
certainty that this woman will keep her safe from all dangers,
seen and unseen, known and unknown.
Now that youre older, you may not need help crossing
the street. But you do need help finding your way through
life. Fortunately, you have Father God beside you. He sees
all the dangers that lie ahead. Allow Him to take your right
hand. Hear Him say, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”
And you'll find the safety and security you seek.

Lord, take my hand. Walking with You, I have no fear.

136
 GOD HAS A PLAN
Ne
‘T know what Im doing. I have it all planned out—
plans to take care ofyou, not abandon you, plans to
give you the future you hope for. When you call on me,
when you come and pray to me, I'll listen.”
JEREMIAH 29:1I-I12 MSG

ave you ever tried a new recipe and gotten flustered because
H you didn’t know what you were doing? You're worried it
wont end up looking just like the picture or tasting like it
should?
Some new challenges in life can be like that. No matter
how much you plan or how much effort you put into some
new task, job, or project, you worry things will somehow go
wrong and you may not be able to fix them!
Fortunately, God knows what Hes doing—and He's
infallible, so you need not worry about anything. God has
everything planned out for you. He's going to take care of
you, “to give you the future you hope for.” So no worries. Just
go to God in prayer. He's ready to listen.

Im thankful that You know what Youre

doing, Lord. Im counting on You!
 GOING AFTER GOD
S58
ig
(

You will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me

[as a vital necessity] and find Me when you search
for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you,
says the Lord, and I will release you from captivity.
JEREMIAH 29:13-14 AMPC

hen you really go looking for God, seeking His face,

Wie ge for His presence, needing Him as you need no
one and nothing else, searching for Him with all your heart,
you will find Him. And when you find Him, God will free
you from everything that binds you, including worry.
Can you imagine living a worry-free life? Living every
day for God with courage, hope, joy, and laughter? No longer
regretting what happened in the past, worrying about what’s
going on in the present, or fearing the future?
Go after God with all that you are and have. Live a life of
freedom. You'll never look back!

Im making You number one in my life, Lord,

going after You with all 1 am and have! Lets do this!
 THE ART OF LIFE
Me
The steps ofa [good] man are directed and established by the
Lord when He delights in his way [and He busies Himself
with his every step]. Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast
down, for the Lord grasps his hand in support and upholds him.
PsALM 37:23—24 AMPC

an you imagine exchanging worry for wonder? It’s possible.

Journalist Malcom Muggeridge wrote, “Every happening,
great and small, is a parable whereby God speaks to us, and
the art of life is to get the message.”
Instead of focusing on what may or may not happen
or how to fix the past, why not wonder what God may be
saying to you in the present? Come out of yourself and into
God, looking for His message through His Word, for the
connection among you, Him, and your life events. See where
God’s directing you, where He’s taking you.
Delight with wonder in every step along the way,
knowing that with your hand in Father God’s, although you
may stumble, He'll never let you fall.

Lord, help me discover Your message

as I delight in every step along the way.
 NO WORD WITHOUT POWER
Me
For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from
God shall be without power or impossible offulfillment.
LUKE 1:37 AMPC

ou found yourself in a situation where you don’t know what

Y to do or say. You have a problem that seems unsolvable.
You have a challenge before you that seems overwhelming.
Fears and worries begin preying on your mind. How will you
ever find your way out of this one?
When youre between a rock and a hard place Sa see no
way out, look to God. Rest in His presence. Bask in His peace.
Remind yourself that there’s no feat He cannot perform, no
task He cannot undertake, no problem He cannot solve, no
challenge He cannot meet. Nothing is impossible for God.
He makes all His words and promises come true. And He’s
your number one fan.

I dont know what to do, Lord. Thats where

You come in. Help! Im trusting in You to make
things right. Ease me with the power of Your Word!

140
 PERFECT LOVE
ae
And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect.
So we will not be afraid... . Such love has no fear.
I JOHN 4:17—-18 NLT

s you purpose to live in God’s love, youre not only living

A in Him, but He’s living in you! Communing with Him,
there’s no room for anything else—no worries, no fears,
no anger, no doubts. God loves you so much that He'll
never let anything come between you and Him. Nor will
He let anything or anyone snatch you out of His hand
John 10:28-30).
Today, pray that God will help you open your heart to
the power and peace of His love, that your spirit and His
will meld into one. Then spend some time in God’s presence,
allowing His love to pour into you, feed and nourish you, and
fill you until it spills out of you and onto those around you.

Lord, I want that perfect love I get only when I am living in

Your love and You're living in me. Fill me, Lord, with such love.

14}
 ONE THING WORTH YOUR ATTENTION
f 1<@

The Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried
and upset over all these details! There is only one thing
worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it,
and it will not be taken away from her.”
LUKE 10:41—42 NLT

re you a Martha or a Mary?

A Martha had invited Jesus to come into her house. But
while she was rushing around preparing food forJesus and the
other guests, her sister, Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet, listening
to what he taught” (Luke 10:39 Nir). So Martha went to
Jesus, saying, “Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my
sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come
and help me” (Luke 10:40 nur). That’s when Jesus made it
clear that Martha shouldn't be worried or upset. There was
only one thing to focus on—Jesus and His words.
Today, turn your worries over to Jesus. Let Him know
youre interested in one thing only—listening‘towhat He has
to say.

Here I am, Lord, sitting at Your feet.

Please speak to me. Im listening.
 BECOMING UNSINKABLE
be,
(PX

Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him,
saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
MatTTHEW 14:31 ESV

fter telling His followers to take the boat to the other side
A of the lake, Jesus went up on a mountain to pray. When
darkness set in, the boat was still far from the shore, caught
in a storm.
So Jesus came to them, walking on the water. When
the disciples saw Him, they cried out in fear. But Jesus
immediately told them, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid”
(Matthew 14:27 Esv). That’s when Peter got brave, saying, “If
it’s You, Jesus, tell me to come to You.” Jesus did, prompting
Peter to get out of the boat and begin walking on the water.
But then he saw the wind, got scared, and began sinking,
crying out to Jesus, “Save me!” And Jesus did!
The point? If you keep your eyes on Jesus, focusing on
Him rather than your circumstances, Jesus will enable you to
do things you never dreamed possible!

With You, Jesus, Im unsinkable! Tell me to come to You!

143
 SPEAK EASY
Ie
Don’t worry in advance about what to say. Just say
what God tells you at that time, for it is not you
who will be speaking, but the Holy Spirit.
Mark 13:11 NET

ow many times have you had a difficult life scene to play

H out? So you rehearsed in your mind exactly what youd say,
sometimes even imagining what the other person's response
would be.
There are a couple of problems with that method. The
first is that the conversation that actually ends up taking
place is rarely the same as what you imagined. The second is
that by worrying in advance about what you're going to say
and then trying to stick to that script leaves no room for the
Holy Spirit to get a word in edgewise!
The best way to handle what may be a difficult conver-
sation is to go to God. Let Him know what's going on, what
youre concerned about. Then relax. “Just say what God tells
you, for it won't be you who’s speaking but the Spirit.

Spirit, when I dont know what to say,

speak through me, I pray.
 CHOOSE JOY
a y ,8

He shall eat curds and honey when he knows

how to refuse the evil and choose the good.
ISAIAH 7:15 ESV

very day you have the freedom to make choices. To choose

i good over evil, right over wrong, God’s Way over your
way, and joy over worry. That’s a lot of choices, each one
having its own set of repercussions. The choosing good over
evil, right over wrong, and God’s Way over your own seems
self-explanatory. You ask God what to do and you do it.
But how do you choose joy over worry? It’s simple: you
open your eyes to the blessings around you.
Author Marianne Williamson wrote, “Joy is what hap-
pens when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things
really are.” Today—and every day—choose to do just that.
Write a list of things that are going right in your life. Then
thank God for all He has done for you, and your joy will
blossom.

Help me, Lord, to choose joy, to recognize all

the good in my life, other people, and this world.
 BREATHING IN PEACE
M6
“Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, so I am
sending you.” After he had said this, he breathed on
the disciples and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
JOHN 20:21-22 Gw

he disciples gathered together behind locked doors, worried

what the Jews might do. It was there the resurrected Jesus
appeared, saying, “Peace be with you!” He showed them His
wounds, and then repeated His greeting of peace, adding
that He was sending them out. Then He breathed on them,
saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
As a believer, you've been gifted with the Holy Spirit. Yet
to do what you have been called to do, to be fully focused on
the work and not the worry, youre to open yourself up to the
peace and breath of Christ through prayer.
Edwin Keith wrote that “prayer is exhaling the spirit of
man and inhaling the spirit of God.” Today, imagine that’s
just what you're doing as you pray.

Lord Jesus, bring me Your peace as I pray, exhaling

the spirit ofwoman and inhaling the Spirit of God.
 RADIANT WITH HOPE
6
May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace
in your faith, that by the power of the Holy Spirit,
your whole life and outlook may be radiant with hope.
ROMANS 15:13 PHILLIPS

ired of letting your worries fill your mind, guide your

decisions, and keep you from living the life God wants
you to live? Why not fill your mind with God before worry
has a chance to rear its ugly head?
Artist Howard Chandler Christy had a good method
you might want to follow. He said, “Every morning I spend
fifteen minutes filling my mind full of God; and so there’s no
room left for worry thoughts.” Sounds like a plan!
This morning, before your mind has a chance to run
away with itself, fill it full of God. Begin with a short, “Good
morning, Glory!” prayer. Then read a portion of the Bible,
looking for a message from the Author of your faith. Finally,
pray as the Spirit leads, allowing Him to give you His out-
look, radiant with hope!

Good morning, Glory! Fill my mind, give me hope!

 THE TRUE YOU
6

“Thats why my cup is running over. This is the

assigned moment for him to move into the
center, while I slip off to the sidelines.”
JOHN 3:30 MSG

he Bible tells you to offer yourself up to God, to let Him

iets you over, to allow Jesus to become more while you
become less. Yet you may wonder where that will leave you,
your personality, your uniqueness. .
There’s no need to worry. As C. S. Lewis wrote in Mere
Christianity:

The more we get what we now call “ourselves” out

of the way and let Him take us over, the more truly
ourselves we become... . It is when I turn to Christ,
when I give myself up to His Personality, that Ifirst
begin to have a real personality of my own.*

Today, let Jesus take you over so that you can become the
true you everyone (including God) is waiting to meet.

Jesus, forgive me for holding back, for not giving all ofmyself over to
You. Help me get out ofthe way so that You and I can truly shine!

“Mere Christianity. Copyright © 1952, C. S. Lewis Pte. Ltd. Copyright renewed © 1980, C. S. Lewis Pte.
Led. All rights reserved. Used with permission of HarperCollins Publishers.

148
 EVERY MOMENT BECOMES A PRAYER
Ne
Seek Gov while he’s here to be found,
pray to him while hes close at hand.
ISAIAH 55:6 MSG

od wants you to seek Him, to pray to Him while He’s

Gres. But as you're striving to meet project deadlines,
get your chores done, pick up the kids, volunteer at church,
and so much more, prayer seems to fall by the wayside. You
begin worrying God sees you as a slacker. How can you pray
without ceasing when you barely have time to fit in a shower?
God didn’t devise prayer to be just one more to-do. So
perhaps it’s time to change your perspective of prayer.
Frank Bianco, a journalist and photographer, wrote, “If
you begin to live life looking for the God that is all around
you, every moment becomes a prayer.” Try doing that today,
seeing God in everything that surrounds you and lifting up
your thanks as you live in God’s wonderland.

Reveal Yourself to me, Lord, in all I do and see.

Make every moment of my life a prayer to You.

149
 SOUL HARMONY
6X
Let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from
Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts
[deciding and settling with finality all questions
that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state].
COLOSSIANS 3:15 AMPC

oes the peace of Christ rule over your heart? Or does

worry have full sway? Perhaps it’s a toss-up, depending
on what's going on in your life.
It’s easy to have a calm demeanor if everything's going
just the way you want it to. The challenge comes when God
pulls you out of your comfort zone or things beyond your
control begin going haywire.
Yet if you trust God no matter what’s happening in your
life, youll not only have peace within but be radiating it
without. And that’s what will make you a great witness for
your faith. As William J. Toms wrote, “Be careful how you
live. You may be the only Bible some person ever reads.”
Make it your aim to let Christ’s peace reign. You'll be
amazed how your Light within will attract others without.

Lord, may Your peace rule over my heart,

calming me within and attracting others without.

150
 A GOOD MEASURE

“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down,

shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap.
For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.’
LUKE 6:38 ESV

esus wants you to treat others well, for when you bless
J them, God will bless you back. Yet it may be difficult to
give of yourself or your resources when you're worried you
wont “have enough” for yourself.
It’s time to change up that mind-set. Let your worries of
lack fall by the wayside, and start making this world a better
place by giving to others, whether by serving in church,
volunteering at a food bank, donating to a charity, helping
a neighbor plant a garden, or giving a blanket to a homeless
shelter.
Begin by doing one little thing for someone you know
or even a complete stranger. Write down what you've done,
including how you were rewarded in return, and soon your
worries around lack will be a dim memory.

Show me what I can do today, Jesus,

to bless the life ofanother.
 ALL YOU NEED

I give thanks to Him Who has granted me [the needed] strength

and made me able [for this], Christ Jesus our Lord, because
He has judged and counted me faithful and trustworthy,
appointing me to [this stewardship of] the ministry.
1 [TIMOTHY 1:12 AMPC

\sanebeen offered to help out with a ministry, to perhaps

even be in charge of it, but you're worried you may not
have the time or energy to take it on. Or youre already serving
somewhere and worried you might be running out of steam.
This is where prayer is more important than ever.
God has definite plans for you. And Jesus is the one who
gives you the strength to do what youre called to do. So before
you say yes to anything new or remain where you are, go to
Him in prayer. Ask if this is where He wants you to begin or
continue. Then serve Him well, confident that He'll give you
all the supernatural power and ability you need—and more.

Lord, thank You for giving me the direction,

power, and ability I need to serve You well!
 BEAMING WITH LOVE
M4
Neither death nor life, neither messenger ofHeaven nor monarch
of earth, neither what happens today nor what may happen
tomorrow, neither a power from on high nor a power from
below, nor anything else in Gods whole world has any power
to separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ our Lord!
Romans 8:38—39 PHILLIPS

eople may come against you. They may even walk out of
ae life or stop loving you. But you need not worry that
you will ever be separated from God’s love, for His love is
unconditional. No matter what happens, He will love you.
His love is an unbreakable cord between you and Him.
Pray that God will open your heart to His love. That you
will feel that joyful love beaming down into you, surround-
ing you, cushioning you, holding you, blessing you, warm-
ing you, feeding you every moment of this day, giving you
the confidence to walk His way regardless of what others do
and say.

Abba God, beam Your love into my heart as I rest in You.

 A PLACE FOR YOU
Me
ps.

“You must not let yourselves be distressed—you must

hold on to your faith in God and to your faith in me.
There are many rooms in my Father’ House... .
[am going away to prepare a place for you.... 1am
coming again to welcome you into my own home.”
JOHN 14:1-3 PHILLIPS

esus doesn't want you to worry about anything. Instead,

He tells you to hold on to your faith in God and in Him!
Even though He has physically left this earth, He’s left you
a Helper (the Holy Spirit). Meanwhile He, Jesus, has gone
ahead to get your room ready—in His house, no less! Why?
So you can be where He is (John 14:4)!
So set your worries aside. Hold on to your faith in Jesus
and Father God. Live without a care as you follow the Way,
the Truth, and the Life in Him, looking forward to the room
awaiting you in His home sweet home.

You, Jesus, are already my home away from home.

Thank You for preparing a place just for me—with You!
 THE WOMAN WHO STICKS WITH GOD
Ne
_ ‘Blessed is the man who trusts me, GOD, the woman who sticks
with Gon. They're like trees. . .putting down roots near
the rivers—never a worry through the hottest ofsummers,
never dropping a leaf, serene and calm through droughts.”
JEREMIAH 17:7—8 MSG

ot only does worry sap your strength and energy, it also

keeps you from creating, from being productive. God
knows this only too well. That’s why He tells you that you're
blessed when you trust in Him and stick with Him and His
plan. When you believe His promises.
When you trust in God, He says youre like a tree with
roots that have access to His river of life. Even through the
hottest drought, you'll still be fresh. By being confident in
Him, calm and serene, you'll be “bearing fresh fruit every
season’ (Jeremiah 17:8 msc).
Trust God. And you'll be blessed in all things, at all
times, and in all ways.

Im sticking with You, Lord, refusing to

let winds of worry have any sway over me.
 STANDING FIRM
ae
“Say to him, Be careful, be quiet, do not fear, and do not let
your heart be faint... . Because Syria, with Ephraim and the
son of Remaliah, has devised evil against you... . Thus says the
Lord Gop: Tt shall not stand, and it shall not come to pass.’ ”
ISAIAH 7:4—5, 7 ESV

ome countries had threatened Judah. So God told Isaiah

) to tell King Ahaz “to stop worrying. Tell him he doesn’t
need to fear” (Isaiah 7:4 Nur). Even though others had planned
evil against him, it would never take place, it wouldn't come
to pass.
When worries come ready to attack you, listen to what
God says. “Stop worrying. You don't need to fear.” Besides,
most of what you worry about will never happen! And even if
it does, God will work it out for good.
So have faith in God. Trust in Him. “If you don’t take
your stand in faith, you won't have a leg to stand on” (Isaiah
7:9 MSG).

Im standing firm in my faith, Lord,

trusting in You—no matter what comes!
 YOUR BEST DEFENSE
ae:
“Dont be afraid! Stand still, and see what the Lorp will
do to save you today. You will never see these Egyptians
again. The Lorp is fighting for you! So be still!”
EXODUS 14:13-I4 GW

od had taken His people out of their comfort zone, and

(5their worry grew to panic. They began thinking it would
be better if they were slaves back in Egypt instead of between
the Egyptian army and the Red Sea. But Moses told them not
to worry or be afraid, to merely stand still and watch what
God was going to do. Theyd never see these warriors again
because God was fighting for them.
And God won the day! He parted the sea for His people
and brought the waters back to drown the attackers.
You're God’s daughter, one of His people. He'll defend
you no matter what. Your job is not to worry or panic but to
stand still and watch Him work!

You, Lord, are my best and most powerful defense. As for me,
Im going to simply stand still and watch You win the day!
 THE ROAD MAP TO A CAREFREE LIFE
6
Godliness with contentment is great gain, for we
brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take
anything out of the world. But if we have food
and clothing, with these we will be content.
1 [tMoTuy 6:6—8 ESV

hat’s on your worry list? Are you fretting that you wont
have enough money to buy that new purse you've been
wanting? Are you worrying you wont be able to keep making
payments on that new car? Perhaps it’s time to make some life
adjustments.
The apostle Paul says that being right with God and
happy with what you have is what really satisfies. As long as
you have food in your belly and clothing on your being, you
should and can be content.
So don’t worry about getting more stuff if it’s going to
put you into debt or keep you chained to something you
don’t really need. Instead, look to please God and follow
Jesus. That’s the road map to a carefree life!

Help me live more simply, Lord, so I

can live with less worry—and less stuff!
 TRUST IN THE LORD
se
Dont worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong.
For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers,
they soon wither. Trust in the LorD and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
PSALM 37:1—3 NLT

ometimes it seems those who get all the breaks are the
°)people who dont’ believe in God. In fact, the more they
lie and cheat, going against all rules and laws, the more they
seem to prosper! Yet here you are, doing the right thing, at
least most of the time, and you can’t seem to get ahead.
God tells you not to worry about those who are walking
down the dark path. It’s you who's truly prospering. While
youre on the road to eternal life, storing up treasures in
heaven, the ne’er-do-wells will quickly fade away, unable to
take their gains with them.
So take heart. Trust in God, leaving everything and
everyone in His hands. He'll make things come out right.

Lord, help me keep my eyes on You and what

Youd have me do—for in You I truly prosper!

159
 DELIGHT IN 60D
NA8
Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give
you the desires and secret petitions ofyour heart.
PSALM 37:4 AMPC

ouve had a secret desire for ages, a dream that youve

Y wanted to pursue since you were a child, but the timing
has never seemed to be right. Now you're worried, wondering
if you'll ever get to realize your dream. Perhaps it’s too late!
Rest easy. As long as you keep coming to God, spending
time with Him, delighting in His presence and Word, “He
will give you the desires and secret petitions of your heart.”
With God, it’s never too late.
Today, pray to God. Tell Him your desires. Ask Him
what He would have you do. He'll be sure to put you on the
right path to bring glory to Him and joy to you.

Here I am, Lord, delighting in Your Word, finding joy and

peace in Your presence. Lets talk about dreams and desires.
Where would You have me go? What would You have me do?
 COMMIT YOUR WAY TO GOD
Sne
Commit your way to the Lord [roll and repose each care ofyour
load on Him]; trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) also
in Him and He will bring it to pass. And He will make your
uprightness and right standing with God go forth as the light.
PSALM 37:5—6 AMPC

ondering about where to go, what to do? Worried you

might have taken a wrong turn somewhere? Relax. Let
God know all of your concerns. Allow them to roll off your
back and onto His. Trust that the Master Planner will show
you the way youre to go.
God hasn't left you alone. He, His Son Jesus, and the
Holy Spirit are here to watch over and look out for you. They
know the past, present, and future, hold all wisdom, and
wield supernatural power. They see what you're doing, where
youre going, what you're thinking, and where your heart is.
Open yourself to them, be responsive to their prompts, and
you will never lose your way.

Show me the way, Lord, as I shine for You!

161
 BE PATIENT
6@
Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and
patiently lean yourself upon Him; fret not yourself.
PSALM 37:7 AMPC

t’s all in the timing, you think as you chew your fingernails
down to the quick. But when will God act? How long do
I need to wait? Maybe I should be doing something to help
speed things along. . .but what?
Have you ever had these thoughts while you anxiously
waited for God to do something—or just anything? If so,
you may have been getting dangerously close to doing some-
thing out of God’s will for you, which rarely, if ever, turns
out well. Just ask Sarah and Rebecca (see Genesis 16 and 27).
Rather than worry about when God will move, just be
still and rest in His presence. Wait patiently for Him to act.
He has the perfect timing.

Help me, Lord, to be still and at peace and to

wait for You to move before I step out of line.
I know You have the perfect timing.

162
 BY GOD'S POWER
6@
“They will pass safely through the sea of distress, for the waves of
the sea will be held back, and the waters. . .will dry up... . By
my power I will make my people strong, and by my authority
they will go wherever they wish. I, the Lor, have spoken!”
ZECHARIAH I0:1I-I2 NLT

hen you feel as if you're drowning in troubles, don't

worry or lose heart. Instead, pray. Ask God to remind
you He’s more powerful than any other being and that He'll
make sure you get safely through that sea of distress. He'll
hold back the waves that threaten your life and dry up the
deepest parts of the water. Your Father can do all that because
He’s God! Because when He speaks, things happen!
God will not only save you but strengthen you and lead
you where you want to go. Listen: God has spoken! Believe:
and you will conquer!

Thank You, Lord, for being with me in the depths and

heights of this life. Hold back the waves when they
threaten to overwhelm. Keep me strong in You!
 GOOD TALKS
a
Let no corrupting talk come out ofyour mouths,
but only such as is good for building up, as fits the
occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
EPHESIANS 4:29 ESV

Ae words have power, affecting those around you. ‘That’s

why you must be careful not to pollute another person’s
thoughts with your worries. By voicing them, you may cause
others to take on your worries as their own while reinforcing
your concerns in your own mind. Before you know it, your
proposed what-ifs have become contagious, full-blown fears!
Instead of voicing worries, consider saying uplifting
things to yourself and others, such as, “We can do all things
with Christ’s strength” (see Philippians 4:13). Or, “God will
make a way.” Or, “I believe I'll see the goodness of the Lord
in this world” (see Psalm 27:13). Whatever fits the occasion.
In saying good things, you'll be building up the faith of
others as well as your own!

Lord, help me speak words of Your wisdom instead of

voicing my worries. Make me a builder not a wrecker.

164
 WAITING ON GOD
Ne
Those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in
Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they
shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles
[mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary,
they shall walk and not faint or become tired.
ISAIAH 40:31 AMPC

orry can be so draining on the mind, body, spirit, and

W soul. When you're walking through this life exhausted,
youll more easily stumble somewhere along the way.
Rather than worry, wait on God. Expect Him to work
in your life. Look for Him everywhere, smiling when you see
evidence of His love, power, and compassion. Put all your
hope in Him alone.
When you do, you'll find yourself refreshed, able to take
on whatever comes your way. You'll be renewed in strength
and power, mounting up higher and ever closer to the Son.
You'll run and not get tired. You'll walk and not faint.
Wait in and on God. He'll keep you strong.

Im waiting, Lord, lifting myself up to You in heavenly flight.

165
 A FAITH-FILLED WOMAN

Iam calling up memories ofyour sincere and unqualified

faith (the leaning ofyour entire personality on God in
Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power,
wisdom, and goodness), [a faith] that first lived permanently
in [the heart of] your grandmother Lois and your mother
Eunice and now, I am [fully] persuaded, [dwells] in you also.
2 TIMOTHY I:5 AMPC

ow you live out your faith makes an impression on young

minds. When your children and grandchildren or
someone else’s children look at your life, will they see you as
a female fretter or a woman warrior?
The apostle Paul was Timothy’s spiritual father. In his
letter to the young man, Paul recalls Timothy’s mother and
grandmother, how their sincere faith was an example for
Timothy to follow, paving the way for him to totally believe
in Christ.
May you, like Timothy's mother and grandmother,
become much more of a prayer warrior than a worrier, a
peace- and faith-filled woman whom others can look to and
emulate.

Dear Lord, make me a prayerful woman,

full ofpeace and strong in faith.

106
 LIVING GOD'S TRUTH
Na
“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called
you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep
waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers
ofdifficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through
the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up.”
ISAIAH 43:1-2 NLT

hen you're going through tough times, you needn’t give

in to worry because God is with you. As you go through
a torrent of troubles, you won't drown. And when you walk
through the flames of cruelty, you won't get burned.
Youll be saved because you're God’s precious daughter!
He honors and loves you! Even if you wander off, God says,
“T will say to the north, “Give them up,’ and to the south, ‘Do
not keep them.’ Bring. . .my daughters from the ends of the
earth” (Isaiah 43:6 Gw).
When worries start piling up, remember who you are in
God’s eyes, and pray to the Father who loves you, the One
who calls you by name.

I want to live Your truth, Father God.

Walk with me as I grow in You.
 SOMETHING NEW
8

The Lorv makes a path through the sea and a road through the
strong currents... . Forget what happened in the past, and do
not dwell on events from long ago. I am going to do something
new. It is already happening. Dont you recognize it?
IsAIAH 43:16, 18-19 GW

od is the only being powerful enough to actually make a

Fr through the sea, a road through the riptide. But
youll never see that new path or road if you're spending your
time today ruminating over what happened yesterday.
God wants you living in the present moment, expecting
the unexpected. He’s going to do something totally new in
your life. In fact, He’s already doing it! Do you see it? He’s
going to “clear a way in the desert,” to “make rivers on dry
land” (Isaiah 43:19 Gw).
So put your worries about the past behind you. Keep
your eyes open to where God’s working! You'll be sure to see
a new path ahead.

Lord, I'm ready to expect the unexpected! My eyes are

focused on the new road You've already paved ahead!
 TAKE HEED
6

Take heed to yourselves and be on your guard, lest your hearts be

overburdened and depressed (weighed down) with the. . .worldly
worries and cares pertaining to [the business of] this life.
LUKE 21:34 AMPC

irst one little worry creeps into your mind. Sometime later
I a “what if” joins the first one. Then another, and another,
and another come. Soon you can barely breathe. You can’t
lift yourself up. You have no strength to clear out your mind,
heart, spirit, and soul of all the worries weighing you down.
Jesus wants you to stay on your guard and to be alert to
when the cares of this world come creeping in. When the first
fret tries to gain access to you, go to God. Ask Him to relieve
you, to give you a Bible verse to ward off that particular worry.
As you make this a habit, you'll find yourself filled with the
blessings of God’s wisdom and truth rather than the curses of
the evil one’s worries and lies.

Help me be more vigilant, Lord,

and replace my worries with Your wisdom.

169
 THE SPIRIT OF FREEDOM
6
Those who trust God's action in them find that Gods
Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession
with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to
God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life.
Romans 8:6—7 MSG

orry is a reminder that every moment you have a choice

W as to what kind of life you want to live—in the spirit
or in the flesh. If your mind is on the flesh, you become an
enslaved worrier, but if your mind is on God’s Spirit, you
become God’s free warrior.
It comes down to where your focus is. The Message puts
it this way: “Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing
on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God,
ends up thinking more about self than God. That person
ignores who God is and what he is doing” (Romans 8:8).
Today choose to trust in God and be.a free woman
warrior.

Lord, lead me out of myself

and into You,
where I'll find the peace and freedom I crave.
 SING ALONG
N&@
The Lord your God is in the midst ofyou, a Mighty One,
a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy;
He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be
silent and make no mention [ofpast sins, or even recall them].
ZEPHANIAH 3:17 AMPC

hen you're writing an email, it’s easy enough to fix and

forget your mistakes by hitting the DELETE button. If
youre using a pencil to work out a math problem, an eraser
rectifies any errors. But you may find it more difficult to fix
and forget the mistakes you make in what you say or do in
your life.
Yet God wants you to know that when you've misstepped
and asked Him for forgiveness, He not only doesn’t bring up
your errors but forgets all about them! And He “exult[s] over
you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17 ampc)!
So don’t worry about your past mistakes. Forget about
them, just like God has. Then join in the singing!

Thank You for always forgiving me when I

mess up, Lord. Lead me in song with You!
 GOD QUIETS POUNDING WAVES
Me
You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds,
O God our savior. You are the hope of everyone on earth... .
You formed the mountains by your power and armed
yourself with mighty strength. You quieted the
raging oceans with their pounding waves.
Psalm 65:5—7 NLT

Ai may have some worries that are deeply rooted. They're

old and full of power, keeping you from easily being freed
of them. That’s when you need to reach out more than once
(perhaps multiple times) and call on God, the Master of
awesome deeds.
God has not only formed all that you see around you—
including you—but all that lies beyond you in this world and
the next. He is a supernatural being with more power than you
can even begin to imagine. Trust Him to quiet those waves of
worries deep within you. To stop them from pounding upon
your inner spirit. To extinguish them altogether.
Pray, and God will faithfully answer with awesome deeds.

Lord, free me of the power of this worry. . . .

My hope lies in You alone.
 BUILDING HOPE
M6

Oh! May the God ofgreen hope fill you up with joy, fill you
up with peace, so that your believing lives, filled with the
life-giving energy of the Holy Spirit, will brim over with hope!
ROMANS 15:13 MSG

ictionary.com defines hope as “the feeling that what is

wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the
best” or “grounds for this feeling in a particular instance.”
That’s an awesome quality to acquire, for it seems hope would
naturally ward off worry!
Make it your aim to build up your hope in God. Scour
the Bible for verses about hope. Memorize them, perhaps
beginning with today’s verse. Or maybe Psalm 42:5 (Esv):
“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in
turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him.”
Remember, you are the daughter of the King, the Master,
the Creator who has “plans to give you a future filled with
hope” (Jeremiah 29:11 cw).

God of hope, fill me up with Your joy and

peace so that I'll be brimming over with hope!
 QUT OF THE PIT
Ne
‘I called out your name, O Gob, called from the bottom
of the pit. You listened when I called out, ‘Dont shut your
ears! Get me out of here! Save me!’ You came close when
2»
I called out. You said, Tts going to be all right.
LAMENTATIONS 3:56—-57 MSG

hen your worries have you feeling as if you're at the

bottom of a dark pit, your avenue back into the light
is to call out from the depths. Call God by one of the many
names that describe His character and fit your need—God
Almighty, Defender, Strong Tower, the God Who Watches
Over Me, Refuge, Shield, the Lord My Rock, Lord of Light.
Know that God will hear you and listen to what you say.
He will get you out of the depths of darkness and into His
Light. As He sidles up next to you, you'll hear His reassuring
words, “It’s going to be all right.”

Lord ofLight and Life, free me from this

pit of worry! Come close when I call!
 GOD PLANS GOOD
Ihe
“Even though you planned evil against me,
God planned good to come out of it. This was
to keep many people alive, as he is doing now.”
GENESIS 50:20 GW

oseph was the favored son of his father, Jacob. One day, out
J of jealousy, Joseph’s brothers threw him into a pit then sold
him to traders. He was bought by an officer of Pharaoh of
Egypt, unjustly accused of rape, and thrown into a dungeon.
Yet through all these things, Joseph never worried but trusted
in God. No matter what happened or where he landed,
“The Lorp was with Joseph, so he became a successful man”
(Genesis 39:2 Gw). Eventually Joseph was made the number
two man in Egypt. As such, he was able to save his family.
Even though you may be going through some tough
times, don't worry. Trust that God has a purpose for you. No
matter what happens, have faith that God is planning good to
come out of it. And you too will be successful.

Thank You, Lord, for loving me. Im trusting in Your

purposes, knowing Youre planning something good.
 A HOME BUILDER
Se
A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish
woman tears it down with her own hands.
PROVERBS 14:I NLT

orry has a domino effect. If you start fretting over

er that has caught your attention and then
voice your concern or act panic-stricken, chances are others
around you will fall in with your anxiety. Everyone in your
household, church, or workplace will come unglued.
Better to be a wise woman who builds up her home
and her fellow travelers with a steady life of prayer and
encouragement as well as an evident faith in God. When
worries enter your thoughts, seek Jesus’ face immediately. Ask
Him to take on your troubles as you pick up His peace. Trust
that He will see you through no matter what lies ahead or
behind. Then you will be in a position to help others work
through their own worries, mostly by being a calm, good
listener, encouraging them when they need it, and giving wise
advice when asked.

Lord, help me be a wise woman, building up my home

by giving You my worries and taking on Your peace.

176
 RIGHT INTENTIONS
SK
Aim at and pursue righteousness (all that is virtuous and good,
right living, conformity to the will of God in thought, word,
and deed); [and aim at and pursue] faith, love, [and] peace.
2 TIMOTHY 2:22 AMPC

etting your aims or intentions for the day (or your life)
before your feet hit the floor may keep you from easily
slipping into worry. So, you can intend to not worry. But
rather than going with a negative, why not set a positive
intention that will leave no room for fretting. Consider what
the apostle Paul tells Timothy to intend: “aim at and pursue”
living God’s way and go after “faith, love, [and] peace.” No
worries there!
Today, before you rise from your bed, make it your
intention to live right, the way God would have you live.
Make up your mind to pursue faith, love, and peace, and
worry will lose its foothold.
The intentions you set are usually met.

Today, Lord, my intention is to pursue faith,

love, and peace with You by my side!
 YOUR GUIDE AND GUARDIAN

“He found them in a. . howling wasteland. He surrounded

them and watched over them; he guarded them as he
would guard his own eyes. Like an eagle that. . .hovers
over her young, so he spread his wings to take them
up and carried them safely on his pinions.”
DEUTERONOMY 32:10—II NLT

ometimes you may feel as if youre all alone in a desert,

lost and unprotected, the wind howling all around you.
You worry that youre too vulnerable, that there’s no one able
to help you.
Rest easy. God is with you. He’s surrounding you,
watching over you. He’s guarding you as if you were the
apple or pupil of His eyes. He knows how fragile you can
be and promises to protect you. Like a mother eagle, He's
spreading His wings over you. He'll take you up and carry
you, leading you to a better place where His promises will
override your worries.

Thank You, Lord, for coming to meet me where I am.

Guard me as You do Your own eyes. Carry me
away to Your land ofpromise.

co
 YOUR BEST DEFENSE

The Lord is my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer;

my God, my keen and firm Strength in Whom I will
trust and take refuge, my Shield, and the Horn
of my salvation, my High Tower.
PSALM 18:2 AMPC

f you're looking for a defense against worry, look no further

|than your Lord. That’s what David did, and he became the
apple of God’s eye (see Psalm 17:8 Esv) even when and after
he made some pretty major mistakes!
In Psalm 18, David begins by telling God how much he
loves Him (see v. 1). Then he describes what God is to him—
his Rock, Fortress, Deliverer, Strength, Shield, Horn (power),
and High Tower. Then, he sings, “I will call upon the Lord,
Who is to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies”
(Psalm 18:3 ampc).
When worry gets out of hand, keeping you from doing
what God would have you do, sing a song of praise to Him.
Remind yourself of who He is, and He will save you!

My Rock and Deliverer, save me from my

worries as I sing a song ofpraise to You!
 BLESSED IN ASTONISHING WAYS
NA bie
God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways
so that youve ready for anything and everything,
more than just ready to do what needs to be done.
2 CORINTHIANS 9:8 MSG

eorge Miller ran an orphanage in England in the 1800s.

One morning, there was no money, and the children’s
breakfast bowls and cups were empty. As the kids stood,
waiting for their meal, Miiller prayed, “Dear Father, we thank
Thee for what Thou art going to give us to eat.”
Then a baker, prompted by God, knocked on the door.
His arms were filled with bread for the children. He was
followed by a milkman whose cart had broken down in front
of the orphanage. He wanted to give the kids cans of milk so
he could empty and repair his wagon.
God knows and has what you need. Transform your
worries about want into prayers for provisions, and you'll be
blessed “in astonishing ways.”

Lord, bless me in astonishing ways

so that I may bless others in return.

180
 KINGDOM-OF-HEAVEN BLESSING
Se
Even ifyou suffer for doing what is right, God will reward
you for it. So dont worry or be afraid of their threats.
Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord ofyour life.
1 PETER 3:14—15 NLT

oday’s verse, which says you're not to worry or be afraid

when you're threatened, was written by the disciple Peter,
whod been both worried and afraid when Jesus was arrested.
In fact, he went so far as to deny even knowing Jesus! But in
the end, Peter was more devoted to Jesus than ever.
Jesus doesn’t promise you a life without trouble, but He
does promise you His peace and reward if you stick close to
Him, doing what's right.
When you feel threatened by what others say and do as
you live for Jesus, just keep Him and His words set in your
mind and heart. Worship instead of worry, assured of your
reward and God’s kingdom-of-heaven blessing (see Matthew
52110):

With You as my Lord and fortress, I need not

worry or fear the words of others. Thank You,
Lord, for blessing me as Ifollow You.

181
 CHIN UP, WOMAN!
Me
pe.

Energize the limp hands, strengthen the rubbery knees.

Tell fearful souls, “Courage! Take heart! Goo 1s here,
right here, on his way to put things right and redress
all wrongs. Hes on his way! Hell save you!”
ISAIAH 3 5:3—4 MSG

t's good to have some Bible verses memorized, ones you can
|just call up during times of worry, stress, fear, or crises.
Isaiah 35:3—4 are two of these verses. Find a Bible version of
them that really speaks to your heart. Then use these verses
when you start feeling anxious, when your hands are weak
and your knees are about to give way.
Speak Isaiah’s words into your soul to strengthen your
body, mind, and spirit, rephrasing them if you need to. Say
to yourself, “Chin up, woman. Be brave. Take heart. God is
right here with you. He’s going to put things right. He’s on
His way to save you!”
Remember, Jesus is your Immanuel, which means “God
is with us” (see Matthew 1:23)! So don’t panic—pray!

Thank God Youve with me, Jesus! With You

heading my way, I know Youll put things right!
 NEVER SHAKEN
Ne

I will bless the LorD who guides me; even at night my

heart instructs me. I know the Lorb is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
PsaLM 16:7—8 NLT

hese days, lots of businesses are open 24-7. But God has
been open and available to His people day and night since
they were created.
So if you have the all-powerful Creator constantly by
your side, guiding you in the day and advising you in the
night, whatever could you be worried about?
See things through God’s eternal perspective. Your days
are like a moment to Him. So live life to the fullest with no
worries, fears, or anxieties to distract you or to keep you from
the joy and peace that is yours in Christ.
God is with you. You will never be shaken. Let that stir
your spirit into moving in rhythm with Him, filled with
courage, peace, and joy, all the days of your life.

I bless You, Lord, for guiding me, teaching me, and always
being with me. I need not be shaken because Youre beside me!
 PARTNERING WITH GOD
: -@

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in

their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into
a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are
called according to [His] design and purpose.
ROMANS 8:28 AMPC

omans 8:28 says that everything that happens in your

life—whether good or bad, within or out of your
control—happens for a reason and according to God’s plan
and that He will make everything work out for your good.
That can be hard to accept sometimes, yet that doesn’t
mean it isn't true. After all, it was true for Joseph, whod been
put in a pit by loved ones, sold as a slave, sent to the dungeon,
and yet ended up the number two man in Egypt!
Instead of worrying about what may or may not happen,
rest in the assurance that no matter what happens, God will
work it out for good. Remember, God can do anything. Your
job? Trust Him.

Lord, with You as my partner, I know all things

will work out for good. On that I stake my faith!
 IN GOD'S HANDS
16
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times
of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and
the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and
foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
PSALM 46:1—3 NLT

ometimes it may feel as if your world is falling apart—

literally! The weather has turned wacky; mountainous
glaciers are melting, volcanoes erupting, cities flooding,
forests burning. . . . It's enough to make any normal woman
worry.
Yet, because you're a daughter of the Most High God,
you don’t have to be anxious or fear anything because you can
go to God for refuge. In Him you will find all the strength
and help you need to get through anything and everything.
So rest easy. Pray to God. Tell Him you know He’s in
control and somehow everything will be all right. You don't
need to know the details. Leave them—and everything else
that’s on your mind—in His hands.

Thank You, Lord, for always being there,

ready to shield, strengthen, and help me.
Because of You I have peace and courage!
 PULLED BY PROMISES
ne
With promises like this to pull us on, dear friends,
lets make a clean break with everything that defiles
or distracts us, both within and without. Lets make our
entire lives fit and holy temples for the worship of God.
2 CORINTHIANS 7:1 MSG

od has a plan for your life. He wants you to live for Him,
(5. trust Him, to base your words and actions on His
promises, to expect good to come out of all things.
God wants you, His darling daughter, to be strong and
fit. For that, you need “a calm and undisturbed mind and
heart,” which are “the life and health of the body” (Proverbs
14:30 amrc).
Por God’s pleasure and your own health and welfare,
make a clean break from the worries that distract you. Go
to God, trusting Him with your concerns. Dig into His
promises, believing them and making them your own. Live
in God’s reality, and you'll be living the life He dreamed
for you.

Help me be a fit temple for You, Lord.

Give me the calm mind I yearn for in You.

186
 SCRIPTURE INDEX
OLD TESTAMENT

Genesis
eicee oes nee tera D2
WAS sas ee ae tie Pil ie ot Mi eA: 5)
LCOir5 cae NeatPanal mah epie 162
UT hsislet en aad tonite a 162 1 Samuel
CC eer Ae See OF
SIS) ty ghtae AEN 175
EGS a ee 40
BD ON Sait Rees LS)
Wer eae Misr mins Shake 40

Exodus
1 Kings
Me baa mete
ak as 110
BS i Ree witssans ame oY
LR eee D ok ALS Sete gear eal
SA Nn cei Re cern eee 124
ee ES A eee
eee er ey
SOI PE a are Sena ERR nee 9)
NWAces Pte eheries seyaccor 119
Deuteronomy BET Met 2 eave Sb 80
ne Chee eee ae ee 135 LSA wa acaeakteee 80
PRO as 8 bis be 135
SL MOA LA 2 5 ss yee ae 178 2 Kings
BOLD T enate Meso liples)
Joshua AG treaty Fatal eaten oe 1S
TCACEre ee SB) 19 T47315r sub pusciGeee 16
RON EW ais Gosksay stun Seals 102
ES ely ee ee REN a: 35
(Cpl Sy aaa eee 80
Judges IX):2ieay ne PR 62
C52. Seis cs ee es 42 DAD) 5th 2 eee DT eS. 62
 INCE SO)a ooRah eeeene 12
22), era
tess 2eres 64 LODTAG yn eeice
aes 102
POHL aeRene
Ran eePeete: 64 PS Neth Bane OE tscy ta ate 107
DD tare Ristiye oe 64 DBARE ee AUN AAT 108
DED tess See ROtis )
Nehemiah Deli Oppa irae atk eek ees 99
EL Oe Ben ee Ae 120 PAC AREA Eee c 164
pie
Ne") ering Pata art ge 33
Esther Zoe)
es Narita
occas rot 28
isBRS BPC PRNEST. fe) 9 I 1 Se a eae en fo 51
LAN Saas Bete oberon eTS se a ie Ne +34
3D: Ore ecg ea te ee 34
Job SPR Sas NO Beaks 21
eenie 29) AAO SOL suis alesse DQ}
SY Fi Sirehen ae Ey. 47 SEE
Ne ers,tcnanss spaces aise ee 81
BNBAP eae ies ain vaca ae 71 DEM Oe cate siyaahee ge 32
1D)Daath wapelena
mney. CU7. WAU oryeae bocce Riva 159
BE eee Ee eer 160
Psalms SIRS ee he nee 161
SOM 5AG Soe
ee ee 114 DP ee ees,eae 162
Ae Sil, NRA Raa ail Ss aerate reat: ate Seah 95
BAU ee eee.
eee 115 BEDS VAIS ES eT 139
Oe IN a Mean eae ee Wily, 40: 4ES Heer 20
Dm Eres prion kaon 116 CY ie Pe
en PR 173
id Oe RRNA
Te eo Wy AOS lente. snc eters 128
LOREM Matinee
Teor tat asae 183 AE) (I etn eC See 185
Co rene BO 3 Late IS) HS Dci9s eta haewe 128
[Sel kcpacae
Rite rete 179 21K) a Me RROSo 128
HS 22, Ws seus te wee La Ole. abaun Gene ae eee 30
oho RE ee ey hora 6c 179
COMEos oh 6 OR 7 Proverbs
CLDOs, cccmnmivanea ana iy TRO nce uencncisaameiawotaacnne 75
GOS 6 dkny eA oa Sale 133 DAO poco onaido boawtthd 70
ra Manion Sa hees be2 LMS VEOVIN (PR
oinee yf 95
G8:19 A Veh
d AS 126 Cee ian ncnanercncenlae 109
WO 29—245 285 Poel ean. 4] FIC ar Pew sc swoxchobesentmoured 122
Ver NO=20) os Shon Coe 39 5 ah ae is eS Fe118
Eern ee 101 1 Sie beeen
ee 30
Bee ee 96 Ode 5 ack Aa eee 176
PLO —U9 ss eae ee 90 TA SOREL A erchokeoe 186
1 edbP aa aay ate 22 USED +s cesta Greens A OY)
SUNOSSA ede sacuter 52
“1ES Sea amar a My)
51k
Die ee|| eee Fee 162
«A Ra enc inte ea oy
"INGEMY ele es rate Ze
Song of Solomon
PAD—50. os sine aoe oc. vgs85
DE Ori Wea
ew casket 129
BATA AG Desios6.3ams92
Peed, 0. 5.5 tapes: ego 6
Isaiah
25% ee tetas
meee 12
DMD OG vis. xboandig vena 156
"NANSy eg 10
Ve cicoks 4Susie ro'tsusneo
RE 156
Se tote cas ase Fe i
pio)Sie ee rs ee ae 145
SS ee aera Fr45 DGD ree hace ot tyoh oe 46
Os O=O, 2. coshs wees abe 18 Cpe eee et 94
HID9—24. alan vcd nee: 47 BADD iccignennstivcnolecd mete 94
AIM oo son, eee asia, ae 31 BOL 4S sae ee 182
OU, ER 81 MPO As cs eA see 165
FS Sys cee Te 44 AESIONS RAYieee eae
es 43
OS ed yess Ss aos ws sco 94 AREMO = ua senpeneareaeas 43
WA) ccactibicsnseennsan tion48 BY GUD 5 seis, aces ibs AE 136
EE |e See cee 103
ABLE) a OenRe ee 8 alt crc. c 167 Zechariah
76h, RRP CEE ee 167 KOR Fa Ie eemneeaia Sr 163
ABENG, IG ADS boc ooo 168
7.(Cr Sn
ee RRR 8 130
SS ren cea eycackee 19 NEW TESTAMENT
NSEGO nePa 149
aM cikacace cee eee i. Matthew
SOLO Name ee 76 LOR ee cctsoes cchoussons
Mees 182
GBIDA cssiond nein ame Baca he 104 DalOMe ck nace ee ae 181
Ce ae ER ae 15
Jeremiah Ge Sat ease ae 13, 30
W/O: a sions Ae 155 (OEE WAG Si aioe Patties crs 13
POA cut a Shane 173 ET GPeeere ea TR rer 91
SESULIAOAT Renee
eyetetn oy TAG Re ae ee oePs 23
29-14 Poe,aes 138 Os SRNR OE Be... 7
370 ARR
PROaT *3. 11 A ea PEG 25
tiie > ae aia = ieSMBs 2S)
Lamentations IIDASHRAD Eseries
CU tne es 230
Odile) DF Sa acacess
akon htos 78 US SOM ares
ie eke54
OOS I7k edcideroaeonitones 174 ESO PADAS inal Pace ee ENG a7
WeeTsai te RPC Meare be 143
Daniel DOSNT ee otEk hs 8 8 ee 143
SrGALS areata eee 9 RO Aaa eh hee Oe 61
2g tas A eeeR 6 9
Mark
Hosea WO Borsiencastoe Sena 94
DUA 5: sce4ssexe pcan 58 B189—A0. vives cot wette seas 88
OBL un cko gente Ree 24
Zephaniah HO e «oc valefopeas ER 25
OGG viguusadiacxcniaxoe 17 Sel see aeSP RAT ce, 144
 Romans
CMs or esis aera 170
Coote Retreat ee 170
ESSG2dGhd nySe URE, 82
Se Serer ce 52, 184
oa coho Mees ee ee 153
PO UD ee ec Pats 147, 173

defotiet 0 1s) si) 3).0: 0 (0 (|e © a)*8) 8:

Biret-sie\rsign'tafi 6)Je)ie) (aivle hme) (eres: PS ieeeaia cient 125

Geer sae os RE 130
9d ee re Panteneeerees eee 186
DUS Sears asapene!75,8, 180
LO arene carscacsyd 106

Galatians
GiB rage re o'starctnevigeaeayens 67
GOO ees ees 68

Ephesians
Sabie. (ou eiite! lelle: fe) 62116" 'u)Cees ose DAN act
es ee 131
DD to APR
NN 164

Philippians
DEM LB swisse tsticsweir to tole het 8
sto My, Ma,Se Hetue, Ne; $0;Ye.Kore ta Me Ke DRO dripsiss anteotes daseknee adele 38
25a elke) +0Me Keiwe, xe Ae)de ye Apes Yon sn\«
RANE Belarc othoc ROU 36 Hebrews
16 oA ye Oe eee Sri is: IG) ace % See
eee Beet 83
A OEM IEeet Graeee 17 WeG.as 4s eeeeee 58
AMS het Catt 164 LOSES ao oe ee ee ee 86
Se Oren ee. ee SB)
Colossians
SU Eek Rl ALA path ta 65 James
SRS IAS ene ey ieee 150 TRS ira cars th, Uae a 84
SA aka ec aden 100 G2 Sie ee ee 84
Bk eatin TA ERE PR 49
1 Peter
Bio] A Se ee oer oc 181
PIL gente eae he eee nt 7
S16 Aree remioaiorcc 105
DIB)arate aaa ee ae emer V2
BY eel cits coven cae 30
Se Uselesa Se owes dents,
cans 89

2 Peter
2 Thessalonians
BoD) Res «Rel pos aoe ees69
UN Se, AR MORE 98

1 Timothy 1 John
A encto Cen care
aaes 152 Be ee 11
eal nah
ikae ele ecko ae 123 LLG)Va ek el tee ek vie 5 56
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 Worry Less, Peay More
Dont‘ fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray.
Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers,
letting God know your concerns. Before you know it,
a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good,
will come and settle you down. Its wonderful what happens
when Christ displaces worry at the center ofyour life.
PHILIPPIANS 4:6—7 MSG

What do you worry about most?...

No matter your age, there’s likely one thing (probably
more!) that worries you day and night.
Whether you worry about work, your relationships,
finances, the turmoil of the world, or something more, this
devotional guide will help alleviate your anxiety-inducing
thoughts as you learn to live in the freedom of Almighty
God, who offers calm for your harried soul. As you read the
devotions and prayers, you'll grow ever closer to the Anxiety-
Reliever Himself, who will transform your anxious heart into
heart overflowing with peace.
Read on. . .and discover the worry-free life today.

Religion / Christian Life / Devotional /Women’s Issues

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