You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord Himself, is the Rock eternal. Isaiah 26:3-4
“I wanted to remain all my life in Toulouse but now I have accepted a new assignment which goes against everything I would want. I saw the hand of Providence and was able to leave the place which I loved with a liberty of spirit that astonished me.
When I arrived at my new assignment there were untold business meetings, with the bishop, the parliament and the King’s lieutenant – all sorts of grand people. Providence gives me a confidence and even a peace in the midst of a thousand cares (which I thought would overwhelm me). Peace comes because God has made my soul impervious to fear. After doing my best, I leave all to Him.
God is a good Father and, from personal experience, I know that He causes all to prosper for His children. Since He has already done so much, will He now forget us? I wait for success with confidence and peace. I accept what happens just to keep pace with His Providence. How can we, poor ignorant creatures, judge Him?
God will keep us at peace even amid the world’s greatest disasters. We will be tranquil in proportion to our abandonment. When abandonment is neglected, no peace or rest is possible. Do not judge anyone harshly. This will preserve your peace. Console yourself by confidence in God alone.”
Jean-Pierre de Caussade (1675-1751) in Abandonment to Divine Providence (Grand Rapids: Christian Classics Ethereal Library) 2.
Special thanks to my friend and Daily Meditations reader, Micah Kohls, for reminding me of the value of this classic book, which I read a few years back when ‘providence’ was my word for the year. When I re-read the first few pages of it yesterday, this post came into view. Perhaps you can relate to it? I know I can.
Anytime we start a new responsibility, such as my new role as President / CEO of Global Trust Partners (GTP), we have many cares and concerns, and the workload and duties can seem overwhelming. What must we do in such situations? There is a way forward that reflects God’s kindness: “Console yourself by confidence in God alone.”
Recently I had a great need arise for GTP that was far greater than anything I could sort. I resolved to breathe in the peace of Christ, and breathe out any fears and worries. I calmly stated my need to the Father and asked Him to help sort it. Rather than share the details, suffice it to say that He sorted it in three days in an unimaginable way.
I had to surrender the struggle of trying to make it happen myself and abandon myself to His provision and care. It was a great exchange. I gave up worry and fear and received peace and, eventually, provision. What about you? Living generously happens only when we learn to trust in Providence. Start by giving Him your cares and concerns.