I am praying through the Bible using a book by Stormie Omartian. Last week there was a chapter that really touched my heart. This is what she wrote:
"The people of Judah had been exiled. The temple was in ruins. Outsiders had taken everything. The Jews were afraid. In Ezra it tells a story of people who were deeply afraid, yet they pulled out all the stops and praised God. They were so loud in their praise that their foreign neighbors heard them.
When you're struggling, or doubting, or fearful, or feel as if your foundation has crumbled, don't ever underestimate the power of praise! Don't just think about it. Do it! Pull out all the stops. Make praise your fist response to fearful situations in your life. God wants us to praise Him at all times, but especially when we are afraid or discouraged. When we do, not only will He take away our fear, but He will also give us joy (Psalm 34:1-5).
Fear will tell you things that are not God's truth! Fear denies that God's presence is powerful and fully active in your life. It cancels all hope and faith in God's desire to work in your behalf. But the truth is that faith, prayer, praise, and the Word of God will conquer your every fear."
I know how fear can overwhelm the body. After I was diagnosed with cancer, I was racked with fear. But I dug into God's Word and discovered that God does not want us to be afraid. He promises not to leave us in the dark, but to be a light. The most powerful thing I did to get rid of my fear was to listen to praise music. One of my favorites is "Praise you in the Storm" by Casting Crowns. That song is so powerful for me, that when I listened to it in the hospital, I felt peace and comfort in the middle of the night.
My prayer for you is that whatever your fear is, you will find a way to praise God for the small things in your life. The basics. After awhile, the small becomes big and the fear takes a back seat to praise.
Praise Him!
Sandy
