A Place of Refuge

This world, the one we live in now, is a tough, mean, sometimes nasty, forever stressful place to live.  Between economic woes, worldwide terrorist threats and problems as close to home as a diagnosis of cancer or the loss of job, it is easy to see why worry and fear make residence in our minds.  On a daily basis, we are confronted with obstacles that, in the moment, seem insurmountable.  For many people this daily stress of life is overwhelming.  Overwhelming to the point that we develop in our minds new and creative strategies to cope with what I like to call "the stuff of life."

Many of these self-preserving strategies are born out of necessity rather than as well thought out actions or plans.  For some, eating is a successful strategy.  In fact, I would say that as a whole, the majority of the population of the US has been digging their graves with their mouths as an attempt to handle the stress of life.  Others have found escape through the art of mind altering with alcohol, drugs and other abusive substances. Even at the opposite end of the spectrum are those who are engaged in extreme exercise, which by the way, can be just as harmful as drug abuse or over-eating.

"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart!  I have overcome the world."  Jesus -  John 16:33

The stress of the world can, and will, change you as a man or woman.  It can change your thought processes, your attitude and, definitely, your outlook on life.  It is for this reason that we cannot rely solely on ourselves to develop appropriate and healthy coping mechanisms.  Jesus tells us in this scripture verse that he knows the world is a tough place.  He knows we are going to struggle.  And, notice, he doesn't say that he will take the hardships, struggles, turmoils and stress away.  No, he tells us that the one place to find refuge, to find true peace in this world, is in him for he is the only one that has overcome this world!

"Do not let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God; also trust in me."   Jesus - John 14:1

In studying scripture daily you can find help in handling the turmoils and tragedies of this life.  We are given direction and leadership on where to turn in trying times.  Jesus lays out the path for us to follow, however, the challenge is for us to take the first step, and then the second and so forth.  Step one is laid out perfectly here in John 14: trust in God and also in Jesus.  When we put our faith in God, and Jesus, we now open the door to supernatural coping mechanisms that provide comfort, peace and, in some cases, solutions that our minuscule earthly minds cannot fathom.

Let today be a supernatural demonstration of your faith in God, and Jesus, and watch how your heart and mind can be changed.