Issue link: http://lawtonfirst.uberflip.com/i/1435161
30 fall 2021/winter 2022 It's 3 a.m., and you're awake – again. Sound familiar? Why does it seem that when we pull back the covers and climb into bed, all of our troubles climb in with us? This is not the life God intended for us. He is taking care of our problems so that we may rest and prepare for another day. Nothing productive comes from worrying. In fact, most of the things we worry about never happen. Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27) Worrying is fruitless. On the other hand, praying produces peace, hope and encouragement. When you're busy praying, you don't have time to worry. God loves you, and He knows you by name. He knows every hair on your head. He knows the struggles you face. The human condition isn't designed for us to see or know everything. In a world that often seems to be spinning out of control, we strive to control things that we cannot. Faith is believing and trusting in a God we can't see. Jesus knew our struggle with this. He said to Thomas, His disciple, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:29) As you move into the New Year, escape old habits that are not healthy or productive. Turn your fears into prayers. Have faith and rest your head. Trust that while you are sleeping, God is still at work. Final Thought