Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Without Worry . . . Make Each Summer Day Count


Difficult situations will come and go.  We often filter difficulties through worry which decreases our perspective and takes over how we think.  And, it doesn’t stop there . . . worry leads to stress  . . . and eventually disease.  We can live life without worry . . . but it requires . . . an intentional decision to do what Christ said to do. Consider what Christ said:   
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you   Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
(
John 14:27).

 Not only is worry a detriment but a weapon against living the best life. That said, worry is often a companion in this pressure-filled world.   

Christ’s words need to be underlined in our mind and heart:  “Don’t let your hearts be troubled.”  Christ did not say this as a suggestion but as a command.  There is a reason.  We are created to live in peace rather than in worry.  So. We must make a decision to do what Christ says to do and refuse to let anxiety or stress rule our life.  The thing is . . . we are not left without a response . . . we are offered to receive peace the kind of peace which comes directly from Christ . . . not from a circumstance or person . . . but Christ.  When you get down to it . . . peace gives evidence to the presence of Christ.
How do you see the peace of Christ changing how you manage life?
Authentic peace which is the shalom of Christ transcends pressures, problems, disappointments, and suffering. Why? Shalom can be defined as an ongoing experience and activity of the presence and goodness of Christ. Accordingly, Christ is faithful to be present (never to leave or forsake you and I) and to be eternally and perfectly good.

Shalom quiets and unifies the mind and heart, which produces wholeness. The continual ongoing activity of Christ’s shalom guards the heart much like a sentinel from the ancient days would guard the city gates, protecting the city from an invading attack. Shalom guards against the power of pressures and problems from invading our life.  The only way we can live worry-free is to give the worry as well as receive
shalom of Christ

Intentionally refuse to be troubled . . . anxious . . . and worried . . . making each summer day count. 
Confess and surrender your troubles, anxiety, and worries to Christ.  
Receive the shalom of Christ  . . . letting it move into your thoughts, words, and actions
 Learning with you to KICK START the day without worry,
Pastor Kerrie

(written by Kerrie Palmer © 2010 All Rights Reserved)
interactstudies/ ~ kpalmer@hillchurch.com ~Church on the Hill~700 N. Hill Rd.~McMinnville, OR 97128~503.472.8476 ~www.hillchurch.com~Archives & Daily Subscription: go to http://kickstarttoday.blogspot.com/