If I let them my anxious thoughts will spin out of control so fast they become a blur like a ride at the West Edmonton Mall. So many conflicting what-ifs cry out for attention it’s like standing at that point of ultimate cacophony where the music of multiple amusements collide -and then a roller coaster thunders overhead. Some people enjoy that kind of atmosphere. I guess I’ve become a country girl.

I need to remind myself, when anxious thoughts begin to multiply, that I can stop and choose to think differently.

I tell myself, “Self? Self! Don’t be hard-hearted, remember and give thanks for all the grace that has brought us safe this far.”

And there has been so much grace! That’s why I chose Charis as a pen name. It is Greek for grace.

The great thing about impossible situations is that we know that we have no way to wriggle out of the problem ourselves, so when the Lord answers with power and provision and peace beyond anything we could muster, we cannot take credit. To God alone be glory.

God is creative and not reactive and none of the things that grab us and try to shake the peace out of us cause him the least concern. He IS  peace. And he promises his peace to those who will take refuge in him.

And since that peace comes in the middle of crazy circumstances and not necessarily in relief from them, we may even learn to enjoy the ride.

The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
    the God of glory thunders,
    the Lord thunders over the mighty waters.
 The voice of the Lord is powerful;
    the voice of the Lord is majestic.

 The Lord sits enthroned over the flood;
    the Lord is enthroned as King forever.
 The Lord gives strength to his people;
    the Lord blesses his people with peace.