These are Lean Times!

“Lean to the left, lean to the right, stand up, sit down, fight fight fight!” That rah-rah high school cheer may not exactly get you through your lean times right now, but these verses, which I call “Lean Harder” verses, are designed to do just that! 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him, for He cares for you.” We are told clearly to put our worries on Jesus, to lean on him. Philippians 4:6 repeats this point, saying, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” The next verse explains the reward you will receive for this trust: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Remember, these words bring power into your life -- His power! God is in control: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:27). God looks out for you and will meet your needs. Jesus promised to shine light into your dark, whatever it is. “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). God offers rest to those who seek Him: “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him” (Psalm 62:5).

God is in the delivery business. He delivers joy, hope, peace, and calm in the face of fear -- all this -- based on what His Son Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. When Jesus died and then rose again, that sealed the deal for us. When we believe that, by the power of God’s Holy Spirit, we can come to God with everything, assured of an audience with Him. He invites us to lean harder. When you write “lean” backwards, you write N-E-A-L. It’s misspelled, but you can see the word there: kneel. Kneel more, at least in your heart. It helps see where God is directing your delivery!

Put your favorite power verses on your dashboard, computer, or mirror. Say them out loud, make up a tune and sing them, or memorize them. Woman to Woman® shows are always online to support you, too. My guests and I have tried to give you information to help you get through these tough times. Check out Sarah Hamaker’s ideas about working from home on “Hired at Home,” and listen to Mary Hunt’s advice on managing credit in “It's Your Money!” Their insights will cheer you on during the lean times!