Finding Hope in Uncertain TimesSample

Got Worries? Remember What God Has Done

“With God everything is possible.” Matthew 19:26 (NLT)

When you’re facing tough times, worry is a natural human response. But instead of worrying, God wants you to worship. One way you can worship God is by believing who he is and what he can do.

In the book of 2 Chronicles, King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah found themselves in a tough spot. Three enemy nations were on their way to make war against them.

Though he was afraid, the king’s first response was to gather his people before the Lord. He stood before the whole nation and prayed aloud. His prayer is a great model to show you how to seek God when you feel stressed out and overwhelmed.

First, when you pray during a stressful time, remind yourself of who God is. Focus on his strength, character, and power. God can handle anything, including whatever you’re facing right now. Jesus said, “With God everything is possible” (Matthew 19:26 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat reminded himself of this truth as he prayed, “Are you not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you” (2 Chronicles 20:6 NIV).

The king’s enemies were coming against him. But he chose to take his eyes off the problem and instead put his eyes on God’s strength and power. He reminded himself of who God was.

After you remember who God is, remind yourself of what he has done. Remember when God has helped other people and when he has helped you. Recalling those things will give you confidence that God will handle whatever you are facing.

When King Jehoshaphat prayed, “Did you not drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel?” (2 Chronicles 20:7 NIV), he was remembering when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt to the Promised Land.

Remembering that God had helped Israel in the past gave King Jehoshaphat confidence that God would do it again.

What are you anxious about today? Instead of worrying, spend some time in prayer, remembering who God is and what he has done. Believe he can handle whatever you’re facing.

This devotional © 2024 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Get more biblical teaching in Pastor Rick Warren's new book Daily Hope Devotional: 365 Days of Purpose, Peace, and Promise at DailyHope365.com.