A message from Jeremy Rensford, Chair of Greater Shepparton Ministers’ Association
It’s an understatement to say there’s a lot going on in our world at the moment – recent elections, wars and rumours of wars and increased divide between heavily opinionated humanity to name a few. With the proliferation of online content and social media; it seems like this has only made these problems more prevalent and immediate daily. So much to worry and be anxious about.
Thankfully, The Bible has relevant everyday advice for those of us who are not doing well – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6&7)
This is like a cheat code for mental health – we all will struggle with anxiety in one way, shape or form, it’s not a matter of if, but when. The instruction here is when it happens, we remember to pray to God and pass on our requests to him, while being thankful.
For me it goes something like this “Dear God, I’m so grateful for all the blessings in my life such as XYZ, but right now I’m freaking out about this issue I’m having, I just can’t get it out of my head – HELP!!!”
Making this a habit has had a profound positive impact on mine and others’ lives and helps me to be more thankful every day. I pray and hope it will do similar for you
