Although it’s been twenty years since this verse became more than words on a page, I can recall the moment clearly.
I was sitting on our blue, sagging sofa, gazing out of the window; my bible open on my lap at 1 Peter. Anxiety unsettled my sense of God’s promised peace as I worried over my brother’s health and wellbeing, a day of talks on prayer that I was due to give that Saturday and a difficult situation in church.
“How can I cast my anxiety on You?” I whispered because of the early hour, though my nerves were nigh on screaming. “I can’t just throw it off as it has a mind of its own. Nor can I physically hand it to You.”
I glanced back at the page, and that’s when the second part of the verse leapt in my heart: “because He cares for you.”
“Because You care for me…..”
I gently repeated this precious truth, drinking it deep down into my soul. A truth that I’ve returned to many times since.
I believe God loves me. But to read and receive that He cares for me, never fails to inspire my trusting response, unlocking the flow of His peace within.
God cares for you too.
If you’re struggling with anxiety over a problem or situation, dwell with this truth this month. In fact, pause now and reread each line slowly as spaced in the image above.
If it helps, open your hands to symbolise your open mind and heart to believe in and so receive the comforting reassurance of God’s loving care.