Lion's Lare Trail in Boulder, Colorado
I absolutely love hiking. My adrenaline is activated as I watch for bears, mountain lions, deer, and creepy, scary humans. As I walk along the trails, I inhale the clean air and take in the outrageously beautiful sights. I am amazed every single time that God created everything I encounter. When I am not chatting up my husband, I am talking with Jesus. I often revel in praise at His creation. However, there are times I pray for something that is heavy on my heart, be it a personal issue or an intercession for someone.
I have been asked numerous times about my love of hiking. Aren't I afraid? What would I do if I encountered a curious creature? What's it like being so vulnerable? Have you ever been startled by another human?
Notice that all of those questions focus on what could negatively happen. Not many people ask me to describe the most beautiful sights I have taken in. I have never been asked what it's like to be so immersed in God's creation.
My happy place is a mountain. Nature ignites my closeness with God and causes me to feel overwhelming peace. I can truly feel His presence among me, despite the dangers that are possibly lurking in the woods and around each bend.
As I excitedly look forward to an upcoming trip to the mountains, I began to wonder why I am so peaceful and calm amongst possible dangers, yet I am often afraid by what if's in everyday life. God is the same. He's not different, I am.
When I am hiking, I release my fears and put my total self in God's hands. I trust that He will protect me no matter what. I often cautiously scan my surroundings, but I do it with joy and peace.
As I scan my daily life and the worries I have tethered to my heart, I am left with anxiety, worry, and frustration.
Why is it that I can't let go and fully trust when I am in regular life mode?
Can you relate?
When I am on vacation, I tend to relax and rest in the moment. I bask in the beauty and refresh my body and soul.
God calls us to do that every single day, no matter where we are physically and mentally.
1 Peter 5:7 instructs us to "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you".
Matthew 6:27 tell us that worry cannot add a single hour to our life.
So let's just all stop worrying, fretting, and trying to control situations we really can't.
How dumb is that statement!? It's such an absurd command. I get so very irritated when I am stressed about something and people respond, "Just stop worrying." Oh duh! Why didn't I think of that! (Insert the biggest eye roll ever!)
Casting our cares and giving God the reigns we so desperately try to hang on to takes lots of practice. We must be patient and offer ourselves lots of grace. In truth, it's going to take a daily commitment to give God everything. We are going to slip up and worry so badly our bellies hurt many times. But God knows our intents. He knows when we truly try to give Him our concerns.
As I am learning to do this more and more, I have found that uttering a simple prayer helps. When worry likes to set up camp in my overactive mind, I repeat over and over, "Jesus, I trust in You." Prayer isn't meant to be long and drawn out. Prayer is talking to Jesus and sharing your heart. He doesn't give out prizes to the best speakers. He gives His overwhelming peace to those who truly seek and trust Him.
Many people know Jeremiah 29:11. We often cling to it when we are unsure of what is happening in our lives. Verses 12-13 aren't often quoted, however. I love these verses, as they instruct us to seek Him and assure us we will find Him.
We've got this! We can imperfectly pray for trust and guidance. We can be assured that Jesus has us perfectly.
Psalm 139:5 - You have encircled me; You have placed Your hand upon me.
Keep hiking up this mountain of life and rest in the truth that Jesus you regardless of your surroundings and circumstances.
With love,
Marciđź’—