Finding Steadiness in God

It was sometime around age 30 that my emotions began to regulate. My 20-year-old emotions drove my misguided actions, made me anxious, fearful, and even angry when faced with challenging times in life. I had to learn how to consider it pure joy when I faced trials of any kind (James 1:2-4; 12).

Rather than remaining steadfast and allowing my trials to produce the maturity that Christ desired for me, I was consumed by overwhelming emotions that thrust me into depression. When faced with sudden loss, stress, or anything in between, my routines started to slip, and day-to-day obligations suffered from lack of attention. This cycle continued until I sought desperately to understand my emotional unsteadiness.

I decided to cry out to God in prayer and find a deeper connection with Him through Bible study. My intentional effort taught me how to find my Christ-centered steadiness during fiery trials. It also helped me understand God and myself through the flow of His love, healing power, and peace. In turn, I found my emotions were steady no matter what was happening all around me. And, just as King David describes in Psalms 30:11-12, I embraced a new countenance and outlook on life.

“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever.”

This week, as you seek to find your steadiness when faced with hardships, remember that you’re not alone. I, too, have felt the stress and pain that life can sometimes offer. Just as our great deliverer has helped me (Psalm 34:19), He will help you endure life’s challenges with unwavering fearlessness. May this devotional springboard you into a lifestyle of steadfastness in Christ as you embrace the—

• Steadiness of God’s Love,
• Steadiness of God’s Healing Power and the
• Steadiness of God’s Peace.

Reflection

• What are the main challenges in your life that cause you to lose hope?
• For every challenge, you identify, describe something good that has happened in your life.

Declaration

I have a bright future, and God has not forgotten me. May I find and recognize God’s steadfast love, healing, and peace with focus and intention.