Anxious for Nothing

Anxious.

Overwhelmed.

Frustrated.

Done.

Busy.

Wondering.

Content.

Since the coronavirus has descended upon our nation and our world, how many of these feelings - and a host more - have taken captive your own mental state?  It’s a confusing time, for sure. It’s a time when the true character of most of us has emerged. It’s an uninvited guest to the once comfortable party of life – the life we thought was going to continue well into the future. 

When plans get messed up or we get surprised by circumstances, isn’t it incredibly human to feel busy, anxious or overwhelmed? 

The above list of seven words was generated by an online Bible study of young mothers after they had endured several weeks of homeschooling their own children, cooped up inside with their littles. My heart went out to each of them as they bravely shared where they were emotionally that morning. Some were going out of their minds. Others were neutral, just done. One revealed relief and contentment with the gift of just staying put in the nest with her multiple children. (At least, for the moment!) 

One thing was evident during our time together. One thing stood out so clearly. One thing became crystal clear as we hunkered down into our study of Ephesians.

It wasn’t that these women were super Christians, even though they are in God’s eyes.

It wasn’t that they were happy in their newfound situation.

And it wasn’t that they were completely refreshed when we had said our final prayer, said goodbye and blew kisses.

What stood out to me in living color was how beautiful these young women are in Christ. I am not speaking necessarily of a physical sense, although true. A closer look revealed their state of “being,” even in the challenge of their “doing.” Some had their hair askew. Some were still in their pajamas. Some were yawning. 

Not much makeup. No pretense. No effort to cover up who they are. Literally, all were fried in a diverse ways.

And yet, oh so lovely! 

Now, just what do you think made them attractive and so outstanding that morning? 

It was their thirst and desire to sit at the feet of Jesus. 

Like Mary of Bethany, they came to hear what Jesus had to say. In the background their children could be heard. There were interruptions. Our class went longer than usual. And we struggled to understand one of the toughest topics God asks women to believe. A lively discussion ensued, them encouraging each other to trust the truth, though hard to do. 

Even with all these disturbances, they persevered. 

You might wonder: What was it that compelled them to give up their time? What is it that brings them back week after week? Why don’t they just give up and go with the current flow of discontent and strife?

It is because of the love of Jesus. They are compelled by what they are learning from Paul. 

In a nutshell, the book of Ephesians addresses every desire of God’s people in chaotic times. With seven strong words, Paul cuts through the chase of six chapters and leave us breathless with joy and anticipation as we are reminded of two important truths - Who God is and Who we are in him.

Ironically, seven women showed up that morning. They brought with them seven points of view. They left with seven words of comfort. God is so good!

Give Ephesians a try this coming week. As you read it, look for these words and see if you, too, will emerge with a new joy at what it means to be a follower of Christ, especially in tough times.

You are chosen by God. Relax into his arms. 

You are included in an eternal inheritance. Secure is your future.

You are seated at God’s table. Your place is reserved. You already have rich food in the Word. 

You are strengthened in every way by Jesus. Your weaknesses are upheld by His strength.

You are renewed as a new creation of God. Arise each day with purpose and meaning.

You are filled with heavenly food. The Holy Spirit enables you to live the fruits of faith.

You are a light to the world. In this confidence, you are proclaiming the Good News to those around you!*

Because of all these treasures, you are never down and out, Paul says. The God of free and faithful grace is present and active! Just as he rescued his people from the darkness of Egypt, and Babylon, this God has sought you, bought you outright, and brought you to sweet comfort, sitting at his feet, standing in his grace. 

Hope in Christ is living, breathing and eternal. Hope overcomes the biggest obstacles. Hope revives our broken lives. 

God’s girls go forward, and live in grace no matter what happens! 

Yes, we may struggle and be off our game at times. Yes, we may cry out in frustration, and yes, we may become disheartened. But the truth remains: those firmly planted in Jesus are free. Our strength is found in the Word. We can relax and be anxious for nothing. 

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

 Ephesians 6:10-13

Lord, let us be like Mary of Bethany, anxious for nothing. We are seated at your table, and we stand in the power of your eternal grace. Open our eyes to see only you in every detail of our lives. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

*Special mention to author Heather Holleman (Included) and a dear friend and her son who never fail to remind me of how awesome God Is! You know who you are – anxious for nothing … and that is amazing!