Restlessness: That feeling of asphyxiating anxiety that seems not to end. Marked by a lack of quiet, repose, or rest; Not able to rest, relax, or be still. It is an overwhelming feeling that takes over your entire body and mental functions and seems to overpower every inch of our being. It happens, sometimes more than we want to admit. And in silence we are prisoners of our own thoughts and an easy prey to our circumstances. We need structure, guidance and wisdom.
Paul, had his share of these feelings. At the time of writing this letter to the Philippians, he was in house arrest for two years. A situation that limited his mobility, his contact with the world and to the naked eye, the influence he could have. But from there he wrote this letter where he instilled among other things the importance of being cool, calm, and collected and changed the world. He clearly stated, Do not be anxious about anything, and anything means anything.
One might say, yeah it’s easier said than done, but Paul was talking about his own experience and sharing with the Philippians the way to overcome. We are presented with many choices every day. Sometimes choices that are imposed upon us and we must decide. The counsel is that in every situation we should present them in prayer and with thanksgiving to our God. We are reminded that, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” , so our trust should remain in His promises.
And it all comes down precisely to that, trust. We can easily be distracted by what surrounds and by what happens to us daily. The unexpected phone call, or reaction, a poor choice of words, and many other exogenous events that tend to rattle our trust in God’s promises. So when you are presented again with anxiety, restlessness and you start to feel overpowered, remember the words said the Paul; Do not be anxious about anything and remember that God’s plans for your life are good and bright and wonderful. Jesus made it clear that he had overcame every situation for us and that nothing would harm us.
Every situation has the capacity to promote you to a better place. Be cool, calm and collected, trust God and don’t be anxious.
“BREATHE expectantly, LIVE confidently and MOVE Boldly”
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© Copyright DP, 2011
Scripture quotations are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.