Our God is near

https://odb.org/2023/12/18/my-god-is-near

I think if we are facing some major crisis or an important exam or presentation like a board meeting or a performance like singing in an event or preaching in church, it is difficult not to be anxious. We are anxious because we are worried that things will not be smooth or will not work out or we may not do as well as we could. Or if a loved one is hospitalised, we are worried that the end result is bad.

But Paul teaches in Philippians 4:6 not to be anxious about anything but in every situation, by prayer and petition (supplication), with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. In verse 5, Paul reiterates that God is near. In essence, God hears our prayers and knows what we are going through. Thus, being anxious or worried will not change the situation or make the outcome better.

I guess if the outcome is somewhat within our control like an exam, presentation, or sermon, we could prepare better. In a lot of situations, it is 90% preparation and 10% delivery. In situations beyond our control, our anxiety adds nothing but may even be harmful to our own well-being.

In any case, prepare as much as we can if the situation allows and then leave everything to God. He knows best. But note one important point, present our requests in prayer and petition, with thanksgiving. Always be thankful and grateful for His abundant grace and mercy in our lives, especially His gift of salvation. Because of that, we are assured of our destiny. In the end, what matters is that we have God with us, and we will be with Him in eternity. Therefore, put our trust and hope in God. Don’t be anxious about anything. In all situations, commit them to God. He knows best.