Category: Fear

When a large part of our inner sense of security crumbles–as it did after 9/11, what are we to do?

Or when a family or relationship problem shakes our personal world to the core?

How do we cope? What do we tell our kids?

We may feel a gaping emptiness inside and long for comfort for ourselves, but feel we have nowhere to turn.

Even in the day-to-day of life we may have people we care about who regularly (and more so in a crisis) look to us for reassurance and for clues on how to deal with life.

All the while we may be thinking, I have nothing left to give.

That's when we do what moms and wives–and dads and husbands–have done since the beginning of time. We give anyway.

We take our thoughts off what was lost and focus on what is left.

Although we feel drained dry, still we can speak the hope that comes from beyond ourselves. Hope that's based on more than what we see and think and feel. Based on faith in God and the deep-down conviction that when we trust in Jesus as our Savior, "hope" becomes 100 percent guaranteed certainty.

That's because it rests in the One who promised to be with us, no matter what, no matter where and to be our strength, even when we have none left within ourselves.

How do we protect our children in this scary world?

We can't, not really. We can hold their hands so tightly it cuts off their circulation and follow them around like bird dogs, but there's no way to absolutely ensure they will never hurt, never be disappointed.

We watch over them, of course. We hug them and comfort them and speak the love we feel because nobody ever gets too much love and encouragement.

Through it all, good times or not-so-good, every day we commit our loved ones to God's protection, asking Him to watch over them.

How do we model living in faith?

I used to think at some point I would arrive at a more, um, exalted state of being. That I would somehow "graduate," that is, to be always at peace.

Perhaps you've wished and prayed for that, too. Let's face the (humbling) truth: We are human beings living with never-ending announcements of yet another reason to feel shaky. That's the world we live in, yet we need not cringe in fear.

My help comes from the LORD, who made the heavens and the earth! He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. Psalm 121:2-3 NLT

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Come to think of it, isn't that more than enough?

Always, there is help available and it's as close as our nearest Bible.

I've found when I'm running on "empty," the best way to recharge and refuel is to spend time in the Word and in prayer.

Sounds good, but where do I start?

Answers may vary–and that's okay, because each of us is an individual. Like many others, I find it helpful to mark Bible verses so I can find them more easily.

Verses like these, which I've had marked in my Bible for years:

God is my refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the sea . . . The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.     Psalm 46:1, 11

The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11

The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:9-10

Living in the world

You and I can't stop the evil in the world–and yes, there is evil in the world. Every year the 9/11 remembrances proves the point.

It didn't stop with 9/11–and it won't. Ever since Eden, the power of Satan–evil–is with us.

Evil will always keep trying, but it will never win. In Jesus, the battle is already won.

Our best strategy for survival–for enduring–is to stay planted in the Lord and keep filling our minds with truths from God's written Word.

Then when our loved ones turn to us, we'll be ready with love and with strength that comes from the Lord, who will never turn away from us.

My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:2

Whatever the disaster, little or large, in Jesus Christ we find the strength and stability to not only make it through, but also to speak peace and hope to those around us.

All this comes not because of who we are or because of our great internal spiritual resources, but always, only because of the One who lives within us.

Trusting, too,

Lenore

Can we still speak hope when the unthinkable happens?

September 11, 2024
WATCH OUT! DISASTER IS COMING YOUR WAY!

Variations on that theme run through every talk show and every news report. Whether it's the latest COVID variant or inflation or the weather, it sounds like everything is bad and getting worse.

Many of us might nod in agreement.

This keeps us running scared and feeling unsettled. We're living out the old cliché, "Waiting for the other shoe to drop," because no one knows what comes next.

Or perhaps what troubles you and wakes you with a racing heart has nothing to do with any headline news. It's way deeper, down to your core. Maybe you can't even remember when the haunting started.

This brings the question: Is it possible to maintain a calm center, no matter what comes?

That's our job as grownups, isn't it? Especially if we're Christians.

Sure, but how?

How do we ditch living in fear? Whatever our challenge, it's always wise to begin with the basics: principles that are true, no matter who we are or what the situation.

Be watchful, yes, but fearful, no

Focus our attention on facts, not rumors, nor on the endless "what ifs"

Do our best to live healthy by eating right and getting plenty of sleep

"Think health" instead of "thinking sick"

Speak peace instead of fear, knowing each time we do we reinforce the peace within us

These simple things make sense 365 days of any year and we have power to carry them out right where we are.

Yes, but … that doesn't sound like enough

I know. When we're feeling shaky inside and can't get to sleep at night we want something tangible. Authoritative. Something we can hold onto.

The truth is, calm that won't quit never comes from "out there." A government official or an "expert" with a string of degrees or even our trusted long-time doctor saying, "Don't worry," only quiets fear for a few hours.

That's because we know the truth: Like us, they're only human and they only know what they know … so far.

We want more. We need more.

So where does that leave us?

How do we shed this deep-down fear that weighs us down?

The "more" we seek comes from within. Each of us constantly fills our minds and hearts with something–and we get to choose what it is. This dictates our day-by-day question:

Will we feed the fear or feed the peace?

It takes no effort to stoke uneasiness. All we have to do is look and listen.

To nurture inner peace costs us something. I'm not talking yoga or meditation or any of those self-help relaxation practices. As useful as they may be, they don't fear-proof our hearts for long.

(How do I know? Over the years I've tried several of those methods.)

Here's what I learned from dealing with my own "hard stuff"

First I had to gather up all the tormenting "what ifs" and stuff them into a box in the attic of my mind. (Yes, they kept creeping out but if I persisted, gradually they stayed put. At least most of the time.)

All day, every day I need to remember who I am. I am loved by God, simply because I believe in Jesus as my Savior. Period. That's what the Bible calls "grace."

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God–not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

Did I pray? Of course, and God always, always, always gave me strength and courage to face whatever came.

I drew courage from the Bible, too

For years I have underlined verses that touched my heart and spoke to my spirit. I also jotted down brief references on the blank pages at the back, in case I forget where they are. (These days I also have the Bible on my smartphone and often list my notes there.)

Bible verses like these:

The Lord will keep you from all harm–he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:7 NIV

When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. …   Psalm 56:3-4 NIV

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV

(The Lord said to Joshua)  "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 NIV

(Jesus said) "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 NIV

As time goes by you will discover verses to add to that list

Look for verses that touch your heart because they speak faith and reassurance. Keep them at the ready for whenever you feel fainthearted about your life or about the future.

Let's be clear about one thing. We Christians do not remember and speak Bible verses as some sort of magic charm. Rather, those times when we quake in fear–whatever the reason(s)–such verses remind us who is really in charge and has the power to help us:

"For I am the LORD your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13 NIV

He is speaking to you, my friend, and to me. In every occasion or dark corner of fear that comes upon us, now or in the future. We are not alone.

What more could we ask?

Thanking God with you,

Lenore
How to shed the fear that keeps crowding in

October 1, 2022
How do we keep from giving in to fear as our hearts ache for those who live in terror and anguish? Or when we do?

Right now news broadcasts make our hearts drop–and we live thousands of miles away. Sometimes it seems the whole world is in danger of falling apart.

Does anybody care? Does God care?

Anytime it seems this world is careening toward destruction a quick glance at this photo quiets my heart. I copied it from the Internet and framed it where I can see it any time.

It comes from the Hubble Telescope gallery of stunning photos. As with many of those photos, the colors have been enhanced, but the shape of an eye is unmistakable.

NASA itself labeled this nebula "The Eye of God."

I find that fact almost as amazing as the photo.

Of course it's not really a photo of God's eye

Still, this photo reminds me of what many of us already know: God is watching over me. And you. And our world, even the most remote region of it.

No matter how alarming or dismal the news, whether it's world news or happenings within our own lives or those of people we love, God never takes a break and gets preoccupied with something else.

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. Proverbs 15:3 ESV

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Psalm 32:8 ESV

For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. … 1 Peter 3:12 ESV

Remember what makes any of us "righteous" is that Jesus died for us and canceled out all our sin.

Breathe deep and be at peace

Yes, God's eye is on us, but he looks at us with eyes of love. Remember this verse?

Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 17:8 ESV

The best antidote to fears that nag at us is to go back to basics and spend some time reading the Bible, God's written word to us.

I've found it makes a big difference if I read with a "How does this apply to me?" attitude.

God's creation all around us speaks to us and quiets us, too. Sometimes I just need to look out the window with eyes that see.

When I do, when I take a moment to focus on the trees or distant hills or look up into the endless sky, I hear this verse in my mind:

Be still and know that I am God … Psalm 46:10 NIV

David, writer of Psalms, never doubted God's loving, watchful eye

For many years he lived in danger and counted on God's protection. He wrote these beautiful words:

Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.   Psalm 17:8 NIV

He will not let your foot slip–he who watches over you will not slumber … The LORD watches over you–the LORD is your shade at your right hand; The LORD will keep you from all harm–he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:3, 5a, 7-8 NIV

God speaks to us through the Word. Reading the Bible is a bit like resetting our internal compass to true north and we get back a right perspective on life.

It reminds us it's not our goodness that's a ticket to Heaven, but Jesus' death and resurrection alone. Knowing that turns our anxiety to peace.

We remember again how small we are in the scheme of things and who God is

So why do we let the TV newscasts and talking heads raise our blood pressure?

History is full of strife and struggles–and wars, whether "declared" or not. Elections come and elections go, always to the accompaniment of boos and cheers. Economies rise and fall, over and over. Medical problems inevitably come with being human. That's life.

Yet this little planet we live on keeps spinning. Every morning the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

The One who was there before the beginning and will be there after the end remains in charge.

For you and me, if we trust in him it is safe to let go of fear. God's got it all covered, so we can live in peace and calm.

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!  Psalm 118:1 ESV

He never takes his eye off us, so let us relax and rejoice!

Blessings,

Lenore

Find calm in the midst of fear and chaos

February 25, 2022
Has it ever seemed to you that every talking head is infected with the same "virus"?

I'm not talking COVID or Omicron here. This one seems confined to the mouth because every other word the speakers utter proclaims new reasons to live in fear.

Even news from halfway around the world affects us. Then come the disquieting reports that hit us where we live. Another warning, another shutdown, another loss of something or someone we thought we could count on. Over and over and over.

Even if we think our life probably won't be affected, an inner fear takes residence inside us. What if that happens to me? Or someone I love?

Logic asks, why should any of us imagine we're exempt? We do, after all, live in the same troubled world.

Christians, too, are susceptible to fear and questioning

Some of know what it's like to be shaken to the core and certainly, none of us is bulletproof. Over time we may begin to doubt even the foundation of faith we've rested on all our lives.

In quiet moments we may ask ourselves questions like these:

Is God really watching over me and those I love?

Have I lived a good enough life to know my salvation in Jesus Christ is truly certain?

If today you're feeling weighed down by uncertainty, it's a good time to go back to what the Bible tells us.

God promises to protect us

His words are sure–and timeless. Take Psalm 121, especially verses 5-8, here from the ESV:

The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right side. The sun shall not strike you by night, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forevermore.

Boil it down to its essence and it's this: God is faithful and HE watches out for us, 24/7. Whatever comes. For all our days.

That's nice–for those who qualify. But what about me?

Start at the starting place: God is love. He loved us enough to make a way for you and me to be his children.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.   John 3:16 ESV

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 ESV

We call that "grace," God's forgiveness, kindness and mercy to us as believers in Jesus. We do not–cannot–do anything to "be good enough."

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.   Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV

It's God's love and mercy. Period.

Our Christian faith is no wispy theory that dissolves under pressure

We can stay calm, no matter what life dishes out–when we count on Jesus and his strength within us rather than our own.

I like the way The Message paraphrases 1 Corinthians 10:13:

No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it.

"He will never let you be pushed past your limit." HE never turns away from us.

Truths to help us keep going:

Our loving Father will never let us down

He will never let us be pushed past our individual limits. He made us so he–and only he–knows our precise limits.

He will always be there to help us come through whatever trial or temptation we may face.

Knowing this deep-down equips us for whatever may come. It's as the Apostle Paul said in Romans 8:31:

If God is for us, who [or what] can be against us?

Worrisome newscasts and scary news reports will continue. Scary tests and dreaded medical diagnoses will come into our lives just because we're human beings who live in an imperfect world.

In the midst of "whatever," we can be at peace

Instead of giving in to fear, let's do a mindset makeover, reminding ourselves that HE is the one Source of security that never fails.

How can we know that's true?

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 ESV

The One who was here before the beginning of the world and who will be here after the end is with us, every minute of every day.

Trusting, too,

Lenore
How to stay calm, even in times of fear

January 20, 2022
The 20th anniversary of 9/11 occurs this year, 2021.

That day changed the way we Americans think and introduced all of us to a new kind of fear, an underlying anxiety.

Even now, television replays and photos of that day shock us and remind us of the ongoing horror and the sorrowful days that followed.

Some ask what good does it do to remember because no one can rewrite one second of that day?

Yet we must remember, if only to recall to our minds that 9/11 changed life as we knew it and ushered in extensive safety and security restrictions as "normal" in our daily lives.

Perhaps we need the annual reminder that life is fragile and each one of us is vulnerable at any moment of any day.

It could have been any of us that happened to be in the World Trade Center at that exact moment

Less than two months before 9/11, a friend and I sat in the the glass-walled Observation Tower on the top floor of one of those Twin Towers.

It was my first time in Manhattan and I loved it.

My husband and I lived in Washington state and I sang with a community choral group. In July of 2001 our Chorus traveled across the country to give a few concerts. New York City was to be our second stop.

First we sang for a large national church conference group in Washington, D.C.

Our performances ended mid-afternoon. That gave most of our chorus members ample time to head on over to the U.S. Capitol. We all knew from watching past Independence Day celebrations on TV that's what was scheduled for the evening of July 4th.

Now we–with no prior arrangements whatsoever–wanted to watch it up close and personal, so we decided to chance it whether we could find a place among the mass of attendees. After all, the hotel clerk said, "Just walk on over and find a place to sit."

A carefree July 4 in DC

About sunset a group of us singers/sightseers found empty spots where we could perch on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.

Not a barrier in sight. No fenced-off areas. All around us people were strolling about freely.

It seemed like a photo-shoot of America. The grounds were filled with folks of all ages and every color, many conversing in unfamiliar (to us) languages. Some people spread their blankets and picnics on the Capitol lawn. Some put out lawn chairs brought from home and positioned themselves to get the best view of the stage show and fireworks to come. Kids did what kids do, playing tag and running around between blankets and chairs.

We all mingled peaceably and it seemed every face wore a smile.

Those in our group talked of how amazing and wonderful it was that such large crowds could gather so close to the Nation's Capitol building. One said, "It all reminds you what it means to live in a free country, doesn't it?"

Not one of us imagined this would be the last time crowds assembled for Independence Day–or any day–would enjoy such freedom of access.

Next day we were off to New York City to give another performance

We had some personal time earlier in the day. My friend had been there many times and insisted we must go to the Twin Towers, because "Everyone needs to go up on top and just look out at least one time in their lives."

We took the elevator to the top, the Observation floor, which featured glass walls that stretched around most of that floor. We found empty seats in the front row and sat for perhaps 20 minutes with our knees pressed against the glass.

Then I walked all around the roomy space, awed by the evidence of God's creative hand in the beauty of land and sea and sky on all sides. That grandeur touched my heart way more than the works of man, the impressive skyscrapers that dwarfed the Empire State Building.

A couple of smiling security guards watched as we came in and when we left, simply observing the people who were there. Nothing more.

Nothing more was needed.

That night our Chorus performed at a concert hall, complete with orchestra. (I kept pinching myself.) Once again, no complex security requirements. Audience members needed only a ticket. We performers simply walked in the Stage Entrance. One Security guard, casually keeping watch. No hassle, just walk in.

My heart brimmed over on that trip and on our flight home, thanking God that I was able to be included in that "dream" trip.

And so blessed to live in these United States of America.

Who could have known these would be "before" freedoms?

On 9/11, life changed. For all of us. Never again would we take it for granted that we were safe, simply because we lived in the United States of America.

Ever since, there's been an underlying sense of fear and watchfulness, as if collectively, we were waiting for "next time."

Since 9/11, nobody without proper credentials strolls aimlessly through the U.S. Capitol grounds–or anywhere else in public buildings or grounds of Washington, D.C. Or in most other Government buildings, whether national or state.

How have we come safely through these past years? We may credit this Administration or that Administration. We may reel off a long list of agencies and personnel and give credit where, yes absolutely, credit is due.

Yet every expert in every field tells us the best efforts by the best people remain insufficient. No agency, no amount of armed guards, no amount of money spent for the latest defense equipment, can guarantee the safety of this Nation–nor of us as individuals.

Evil is real. Evil exists all around us, just as it has since Eden. To consider Evil an outdated concept is akin to burying one's head in the sand.

The ongoing lesson is this: Only one sure Defense exists

By now we all know very well that people and programs are not enough to keep us safe. We need Help that will never fail us. Where can we turn?

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 ESV

Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Proverbs 30:5 ESV

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 ESV

As a Nation, as individuals, we could not be in better hands–on this day or any day of any year.

May God bless America, indeed, and keep us safe, both now and in the future!

And, Gentle Reader, may you know His peace in your heart and in your life, the peace that passes all human understanding.

Trusting and praying, too,

Lenore

Ongoing Lessons from 9/11

September 9, 2021
For a moment or two, let your mind wander and picture this . . .

You finally managed to buy your longtime dream, a home deep in beautiful, wooded mountain country in California.

Tranquil lakes and streams. Towering evergreens up close or on the next hill. Room to breathe. Peaceful, blessed quiet, except for the calming sounds of Nature all around.

However you spend your days, whether hiking one of the many trails that thread through the forest or just sitting in your front-porch rocker, you're at peace.

Several times a day you think, All those years I (or we) worked hard to get here and it was so, so worth it!

At night, looking into the deep blue sky and counting stars or watching the logs in your fireplace ebb down into embers, you say, "Life couldn't be better. What a blessing!"

And then comes the horror

For some, it came late at night, for others, in broad daylight.

Engrossed in what you were doing–or perhaps sleeping soundly–you're roused by someone pounding on your front door.

There stands a frantic smoke-blackened firefighter. He yells, "You must leave! NOW! You only have minutes! You have no time to grab any belongings. Just go!

"Get your family members and RUN!"

For any of us, life as we know it can fall apart in an instant

All it takes is a phone call. A bad fall. A car accident with devastating injuries. Biopsy or lab test results we prayed never to hear. Someone we love hit by disease or a heart attack. Or a devastating injury. Or death that claims the earthly life of one we thought we couldn't live without.

Or it may be "impersonal," such as a business closing–and with it, the end of a job or career that enabled us to pay the bills. Job changes that call for retraining–or starting over. A landlord that sells the home we live in, leaving us with nowhere to go that we can afford.

Whatever the cause, many of us have lived it, sometimes more than once. Or we know someone who has. In times like that, tragedy can overwhelm our spirits and snuff out hope.

How do we go on?

Whatever comes, we cling to Truth that outlasts any trial, any catastrophe

When we're in pain because our world is falling apart, it feels natural to lapse into anxiety and fear. We're tempted to pull our pain around us like a warm quilt. Why not? Everyone would understand.

Here's the question each of us must answer for ourselves: Is that really how we want to live?

Most of us would answer "No."

Still, how do we hold it together? How do we find strength to go on?

Answer: We do the hard thing: We fight for it.

We deliberately–as if we were changing channels on a TV–fill our minds with reminders from the Bible that our kind and merciful God has not turned his back on us.

We repeat the verse or verses aloud if that's the only way to drown out the fear. We whisper them at night when we cannot go to sleep, sometimes over and over until sleep comes.

Start with reassuring Bible verses like these

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. –Psalm 46:1-2

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. –Deuteronomy 31:8

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. –John 16:33

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.   –Isaiah 41:10

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. –John 14:27

Make these verses–and others like them–the refrain of your life

Promise yourself you will stop saying–and thinking, "I don't know how I will get through this."

Say instead, "With God's help, I will get through this. Moment by moment. Day by day."

When fear intrudes–and it will, mentally shout "Stop!" and emphatically turn your thoughts to the One who loved us enough to die on the cross so that we can be at peace with God.

He is the One who told his followers–and us: "Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." –Matthew 28:20.

We do not walk alone.

We do not face our troubles on our own.

Whatever comes into our lives, God will give us the strength to get through whatever comes.

In every situation, we depend on Him, not on ourselves. And so we survive–and get through–whatever comes.

Hanging on tight,

Lenore

Here’s help for when life falls apart

September 2, 2021
"I am up to here with warnings and arguments and scary stories on the news!" wails the young woman at the next table."

"Me, too," her friend answers. My kids keep pestering me with questions, but I have no answers. How do I know if school actually will start this fall? Or if we'll have to wear masks again and all that routine? Or if it's safe to walk or ride a bike around our town, what with people–and kids–being shot at by some stranger driving down the street?

"I just want to grab everybody I love and never let go. Maybe never leave home."

As the two young moms got ready to leave, I heard the younger one say, "Sometimes I think the only safe place is in a cave on some far away island!"

Remarks like this swirl around all of us. People are frightened and uneasy, wondering what will happen next. And to whom.

It seems the torrent of troubles never lets up.

Is there any good news to report?

Answer: Yes, but most of it goes unreported. Television reporters and newscasters and newspaper headlines almost always lead with crimes, tragedies and misdemeanors.

Trace it back to a standard slogan of the news business: "If it bleeds, it leads."

Statistics show that readership and TV viewership go up–way up–when they feature bad news and tales of people who assault or kill others. The more horrific the better. Then they get to add in speculations about motives and/or possible crimes.

They fill in the gaps with opinions on possible doom and destruction that may lurk just ahead.

This allows us the "privilege" of consuming a steady diet of this kind of stuff during every waking moment.

Is it any wonder so many of us feel anxiety that won't quit?

What if we made a better choice?

Here's the sobering truth. Nobody forces us to feed on the news 24/7–or several times a day.

It's like an addiction. Maybe someone should start a BNAA: Bad News Addiction Anonymous.

This startup could borrow the "Serenity Prayer," used by Alcoholics Anonymous and other self-help organizations. Here's one common version:

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and Wisdom to know the difference.

Repeat aloud (or silently) as often as needed.

You see, whatever our age, our finances or our life situation, we need something solid to hang onto. We can choose to focus on God's faithfulness.

That never changes. Never lets us down.

Because God never changes.

Remember, God brought us to this day

My favorite grandmother, who died at age 101, never lost sight of that and considered every day a gift. The last time I saw her was two years before her death.

Grandma's beautiful, wrinkled face glowed as she said, "You know, Lenore, God is SO good. He never left me alone for a minute."

Ah, yes, Grandma. He never leaves any of His children alone for a minute.

Anytime. Anywhere.

So let's fill our minds and hearts with Bible promises like these:

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Psalm 55:22

He (she) who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:1-2

(Jesus said) "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."   John 14:27

How about a new slogan for our life? "If it feeds, it leads."

We could call it the "Good Stuff Diet."

Even a snack-size serving, day after day, can drive out fear and plant His peace in its place. The peace that passes all human understanding, remember?

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Every day, no matter how dismal the news, we have a choice. Let's choose to see the joy in each day, because that's every bit as real as the bad news. We just have to look for it.

Lord, give us eyes to see!

Lenore

Keep your balance in the storm of bad news

July 20, 2021
Ahead of us lies the great unknown. Another 365 days of … what?

Sometimes the steady stream of What-ifs seems like too much, doesn't it? We want to hunker down and wait for it to blow over.

Our friend "Jim" found out dogs can feel that way, too.

During his growing-up years he loved to roam the California hills. One blue-sky Saturday he set off to go exploring. His faithful sidekick "Marley" tagged along at his heels.

As they came over one hill Jim heard a high-pitched, unfamiliar drone. Marley heard it, too.

The usually fearless German Shepherd crouched on the grass and refused to budge. No amount of coaxing or scolding could get him moving.

At last Jim gave up. The teenager picked up Marley and staggered over the next hill, where the noise barely registered.

Only then would Marley resume walking on his own.

You and I may wish we could do what Marley did

If only we could refuse to budge.

We can't, of course, because we have responsibilities and people who need us. Need us to be strong, even when we're quaking with fear inside.

We survived 2020. Yay! But here we are, still living under restrictions, wearing masks and washing our hands. Still wondering what comes next–and when.

Frankly, we are tired of this routine. We want to get past it and go on.

And fear lurks everywhere because we don't know what comes next.

But here's the thing: We never did. Neither did countless generations before us.

Like them, we must take one step at a time, one day at a time, fully aware we cannot make it on our own.

Like them, we're never left to get through all this on our own strength:

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, for I myself will help you,' declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel." Isaiah 41:13-14

Surprises along the way are guaranteed

We know by experience we won't like some of them. No matter. We need to keep walking if we're to get through our days.

This calls for courage–and where do we get a dose of that?

For starters, look back to one dark night outside Bethlehem.

The shepherds out on the hills outside Bethlehem were just living their usual lives, watching out for their sheep. Then one night, suddenly angels filled the skies, singing praises to God. The glory of the Lord shone around them and lit up the darkness with dazzling light.

The shepherds fell to their knees. Fearful. What could it mean?

The angel's words to those humble men apply just as much to you and me today:

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today . . . a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."   (from Luke 2)

Fear and apprehension can turn to laughter, even in the night

Once they heard and saw the angels the shepherds were filled with joy and rushed off to Bethlehem to see for themselves the Baby in the manger. They abandoned their sheep because their desire to see the Baby Jesus crowded out every other thought.

What if you and I had the same single-minded yearning to see and know Jesus?

Would it change the way we look at our lives and what we consider important? Would we leave fear behind?

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."  John 14:27

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Where is the darkness in your life?

Every one of us has some sort of "darkness"–difficulty and struggle–in our life. We know by experience that times of calm usually don't last, that danger lurks just off the scene.

Life is uncertain. All it takes is one false step. One drunk driver. One bad report from the doctor and our life could turn from happy to sad in an instant.

So then how shall we cope with the uncertainty of being alive?

The same as all the Christians who went before us, living one day after another, trusting God every step of the way.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Let's leave the shadows behind

Because we know the Source of joy, we can live fearlessly. Joyously.

The Bible tells us how.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

We can't know what lies ahead, but we can know God is faithful and His promises are true

Marley had an owner who loved him enough to carry him past what troubled him.

We have so much more. We have Almighty God, our loving Father, who promises to never leave us alone and to strengthen us and carry us through whatever comes.

It is enough.

Count on it and be at peace,

Lenore

Take your pick: Will you live scared? Or will you live at peace?

December 30, 2020
What are we to do when every day's news breaks our hearts?

We can play "Let's Pretend" while the sun shines. But when we wake with a start at 2 a.m. the familiar chorus of inner taunts and fear kicks in.

What then?

First, let's plug into reality and consider it well. Every media outlet operates by a universal slogan of the news business: "If it bleeds, it leads." Pay attention next time and you'll see that's true. What's good and uplifting is usually one or two minutes pieced in at the end

Second, yes, we can find a lot to worry about, a lot to disagree with. No matter which "side" we're on. Even when we struggle to keep an open mind.

But here's what matters most. The Lord of heaven and earth, the Creator of everything seen and unseen, has not turned his back on us. He watches over us.

How can we be sure? He tells us in His written word, the Bible.

My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip–he who watches over you will not slumber. Psalm 121:3-4

It's time to equip ourselves so we don't lose heart

It's not a stockpile of guns we need, but a storehouse of promises. Words from the Word.

Words that lift us up rather than weigh us down.

Over the past few years I've discovered anew how much it helps to arm ourselves with Truth. I don't know why this verse particularly speaks to my anxious heart, but I've probably repeated it to myself a thousand times:

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 NIV

Over and over, day and night, driving in my car or doing chores–or in the middle of the night–that verse quieted my heart and my fears.

The value of Scripture vs. repeating affirmations, mantras and power statements

Talking heads on TV and "name" authors tell us we need to cultivate the habit of regularly repeating positive statements like this to ourselves: "I am strong. I am brave. I will be fine, etc."

It may help. A little.

What helps more is to turn the eyes of our hearts to God's Word and know it has power.

Here's 2 Timothy 3:16 ESV:

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.

Whether we spend hours in deep Bible study or only manage moments here and there, God's Spirit works through Scripture and changes us.

Living by the news trains us in fear.

Living by the Truth trains us in righteousness.

It reminds us who we are in Christ: God's righteous people, set right with God not because of what we do or think but because of what Jesus Christ accomplished on our behalf.

What helps most is to focus on power beyond our own

First and most importantly, if we believe in Jesus Christ as true God and the Savior from sin:

We needn't fear God is just waiting for us to slip up so He can lower the boom on us.

We needn't view our problems as punishment.

We have eternal life. Now.

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 ESV

If we depend on our "higher consciousness" or our "good thoughts" for strength, we'll stay mired in the swamp of fear that pervades our national thinking right now.

If we take God at His word, we can live free.

God hasn't abandoned the United States of America

His hand of blessing and mercy has been on this nation from the beginning. How else could this "Grand Experiment" have survived?

Our Founding Fathers were great men, yes, but they were ordinary human beings. Almost without exception they were Christians and trusted God. For example, George Washington said:

"You do well to learn our arts and ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. These will make you a greater and happier people than you are."

What's needed most is individuals who quietly speak reassurance and faith

Giving in to fear won't make us or anyone around us calmer.

It won't do one iota to make America a stronger nation.

However the upcoming elections turn out, whoever wins, whether final results cause us to applaud or weep, God will not turn away from us or from the United States. Life will go on.

By God's grace–and mercy–we will survive.

[Jesus said] "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Matthew 10:29-30 NIV

So let's leave fear behind. May we who believe in God be known as the people who speak courage and peace into fear.

Trusting, too,

Lenore
Let’s stay grounded and choose courage instead of fear

September 23, 2020
Many of us wake up every morning feeling anxious and drag our load of uneasiness to bed with us, too.

No wonder. Every day "they" announce some new reason to be afraid.

Disturbing news seeps into our awareness, even though we think we're tuning it out. "What ifs" buzz around in our minds like pesky gnats, hatching into fears for our children and ourselves.

This isn't the first time cause for anxiety slithered into our world, it's just the most recent display. Perhaps you, too, have wondered how fear got such a hold on our culture. I think Oswald Chambers, who wrote My Utmost for His Highest, explained it best:

"When you fear God, you fear nothing else. When you don't fear God, you fear everything."

Fear of God means standing in awe of who he is and what he can do

The Bible makes it plain:

For thus says the Lord, who created the heavens (he is God!), who formed the earth and made it (he established it; he did not create it empty, he formed it to be inhabited!) "I am the Lord, and there is no other." Isaiah 45:18 ESV

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 46:10 ESV

In our "enlightened times" the very idea of God and even more, of Jesus as the Savior of the world, seems to have been declared irrelevant.

Thank God individuals still can profess their faith and some we see and hear on our screens regularly do so, but that's a small percentage of the whole.

Looking for peace in all the wrong places

None of us are immune to fear. It's part of being human.

If you're having sleep problems, you have lots of company. Physical therapists report most patients complain of tight shoulders and neck problems. Why? Because that's where so many of us unconsciously hold our tension.

Even the calmest among us will admit to an underlying low-level sense of concern that won't leave.

That's why we need to remind ourselves over and over that ultimate power rests in God's hand, not with Covid.

Here's what Jesus told his followers–and if we're Christians, this includes us

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, nor let them be afraid." John 14:27 ESV

The Apostle Paul had every reason in the world to be anxious, but he told the Philippians in Chapter 4:6-7 ESV:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

His peace in our hearts and minds is ours for the taking. But here's the question: Are we willing to give up feeling anxious?

That sounds like an odd question, but for some individuals, living all churned up with anxiety means feeling more alive. More in touch with their emotions and with what's going on in the world, a bit more sensitive than people around them who don't seem as troubled.

More faith verses

Some of us grew up believing we shouldn't "mark up" our Bibles. Once I broke free of that lie I discovered what a joy it is to underline verses that speak to my heart, verses like these.

The LORD is my light and my salvation–whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life–of whom shall I be afraid?   Psalm 27:1 NIV

Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me. Psalm 50:1 NIV

When I am afraid I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. Psalm 56:5-6 NIV

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NIV

You gotta put the good stuff in if you want to get the good stuff out

That folksy sense saying applies in all of life, especially to our minds.

Adult or child, what we feed our minds is what we live out.

Always, always, the greatest answer for troubled hearts is found in John 3:16-17.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Filling our minds with thoughts of God's mercy in sending Jesus to be our Savior is the remedy that shrinks our deepest fears and fills us with calm.

Even if. Even when. Even though.

Lovingly,

Lenore

Helps to staying calm in fearful times

July 1, 2020