Daily Companion  | 25 July

A NEEDLESS HABIT 

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. - Philippians 4:6 

He fasted and prayed for his sick child to be healed but nothing happened and the child died at last. While people were expecting him to cry and be 'mad' at the demise of the child, David rose from the ashes, took his bath, dressed well, worshipped God and asked for food. Everyone was shocked David decided to eat rather than mourn. When queried, David answered, "The child is dead, wherefore should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me." Literarily meaning, it is a needless worry.

Being worried, anxious or fearful is a common needless habit, especially for situations beyond your control. Panicking, being troubled or being fearful distorts your good sense of thinking. It may lead to making hasty and damaging decisions. It may lead to saying blasphemous and eternally damaging words. Hypertension, heart failure,  depression, psychosis, maniac disease or bipolar disorders have been attributed to being anxious and responding negatively to troubling situations. 

Dear friend, make no mistake, not getting worried does not mean you are not concerned. Of course, you can refuse to be troubled but still care, mourn your loved one and show your concern, and compassion. It is however pitiful that some get worried out of pretense. It is a needless habit. Several times, our Lord Jesus had either warned or commanded “Let not your heart be troubled.” (John 14:1).

Be anxious for nothing, no exemption. You can choose not to be troubled. There may be troubles in your ministry, homes, relationships, finances, business, or health; still see that you are not troubled. They could be fierce and life-threatening, in all, see that you do not put on the needless habit.

Beloved, when troubling situations arise, remember the first thing to do is to "be Still and Pray". “God is your refuge and strength, a very present help in the time of trouble. "Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled... (Psalm 46:1-3). May you not be troubled in Jesus name. Amen!

Today’s Recite:  "If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest?" -  Luke 12:26

Today’s Morning Prayers: Oh Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your Peace. I receive Your abundant grace to be at peace at all times, not to panic or be troubled. Be my hope, my strength, my anchor. In my peace and calmness, make all troubles cease in Jesus name I pray. Amen!

Today’s Hymn: WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE JESUS

Today’s ReadMe:  Isaiah 29 - 33