| Hello Church Family,
I was at the dentist recently to have some fillings replaced. Going to the dentist doesn’t make me nervous, but in this situation, I was uncomfortable. The dentist put a tube with a mouthpiece inside my mouth. It made it hard to swallow, and I felt like I couldn’t breathe. A sensation of panic started to rise in me. My first thought was to pray Psalm 23 over myself. As I declared Scripture, my anxiousness lifted.
I kept on praying, repeating, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
When the dentist started having trouble and I felt like the pressure was doubled on my tooth, my mind wandered, and immediately, the feeling of panic started to rise. My mind had been distracted by the pressure, and I stopped praying. I recognized what was going on: as soon as I stopped praying and started focusing on the pressure and discomfort, my breathing would change, and I’d feel panicky. I jumped right back into prayer, and immediately, things shifted… I had peace, and panic left my mind and body.
This simple example contains some big truths that we can apply to our lives (God’s Word is very practical!).
1. Declaring God’s Word over our situation moves our mind from our circumstances, our thoughts, and the enemy’s attack and brings peace. Remember Jesus’ response when Satan tempted Him: “It is written…” He declared Scripture. That needs to be our response too because Satan must bow to God’s Word spoken in authority by one of His kids.
2. When you feel like the pressure is increasing around you, start to declare God’s Word. Don’t be distracted by the pressure… and don’t stop praying! 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Never stop praying.” That doesn’t mean we’re on our knees 24/7. It means we’re always talking to God and listening for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He will give you the Scripture you need to declare over your situation.
3. God cares about even the smallest details in our lives. He doesn’t want us to have any anxiety: “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT). ALWAYS remember what Jesus said: “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life” (John 10:10b NLT).
I don’t know what you’re facing today.
Do you have a challenge that looks impossible? Declare what Jesus told His disciples: “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible” (Matthew 19:26 NLT).
Do you feel you need direction in a situation? Declare Psalm 32:8 (NLT):
The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”
Is Satan tormenting your mind with negative thoughts that are stealing your peace and joy? Declare Isaiah 41:10 in a personal way, and declare it out loud so that the spirit realm hears you loud and clear:
I won’t be afraid, for You are with me. I won’t be discouraged, for You are my God. You will strengthen me and help me. You will hold me up with Your victorious right hand.
Whether you’re facing a mountain of a challenge, an attack in your mind, or want to enjoy the peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7), declaring God’s Word will get you there.
Let’s get God’s Word deep inside our hearts so that we can enjoy the rich and satisfying life Jesus died to give us.
Shalom, Ali Biensch |