Anxiety is the experience that you’re all alone in a world that’s too big for you. You feel anxious because you can’t control your circumstances. But if the Lord is near, everything changes. You aren’t alone, and the one who is in control, to order and provide, he’s near and he cares for you and he is involved.

David Powlison

Philippians 4:5-7

The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2016. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Abba,

Your nearness has always been, is now, and forever shall be the greatest hope, joy, and strength that we possess.

The terrifying reality is how often my fickle eyes lose sight of that.

What have I to fear when you are near?

What have I to envy when you are with me?

What have I to doubt when truth abides?

When fear descends, it is because I have forgotten your closeness.

When fear intensifies, it is because I have forgotten your greatness.

When fear cripples, it is because my eyes have grown dim to both your nearness and your might. My heart only sees me…and I am not big enough or trustworthy enough to garner confidence in the face of such opposition.

Let me fix my gaze ever and only upon the hope and confidence of your unchangeable nearness and upon your undefeatable might.