Peace with God Through Prayer
“I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.” Psalm 34:4-5, English Standard Version
When I read the Psalms, I always find comfort. They have a way of meeting you in the heart when you need it the most. This psalm met me this week.
Prayer is a practice and discipline. When we pray, we exercise our faith in God. Though we oft pray petitions according to our own will and desires, we learn from Christ's example in the garden “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will"(Matthew 26:39, ESV). So even when we do not know the answer, God is faithful to hear us and answer by calming our fears. During hard times when there seems to be no foreseeable end, there is comfort in knowing God hears and answers with calming love and peace. "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear..." (1 John 4: 18a, ESV). In Christ, we can count on peace amid storms and peace through the fires of life, knowing that God is Ever-present and walking with us every step of the way, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4, ESV).
When you cast your cares on the Lord through prayer, trust Him, even when you do not know the outcome. He will always walk with you, and give you peace, comfort, and endurance.
