Think about this. The One who created and controls the world, the One who is the ultimate definition of what is loving, true, and good, and the One who alone has the power to finally defeat sin has chosen, because of his grace, to wrap his arms of faithful love and protection around you, and he will not let you go. You can take your life off your shoulders because God has placed it on his.

In your weakness, worry, doubt, and fear, he pleads to the Father in your defense.

Many people have talked to me about God in the middle of difficulties, and after listening to them, I have been struck that, if I believed in the "God" they described, I wouldn't run to him for help either, and I'd be in a panic

Think about this. The One who created and controls the world, the One who is the ultimate definition of what is loving, true, and good, and the One who alone has the power to finally defeat sin has chosen, because of his grace, to wrap his arms of faithful love and protection around you, and he will not let you go.

The words of Zephaniah 3:17 ring with as much hope today as they did generations ago when they were penned: "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save.

even though there is very little that we know for sure about our lives and we experience constant surprises along the way, we need not give way to panic.

It's never hopeless and you're never helpless if Immanuel has invaded your life with his glory and grace.

You and I can face the harsh realities of life in this broken world with courage and hope because we do not face them all by ourselves. Immanuel ("God with us") is indeed with us in power, glory, and grace.

even though there is very little that we know for sure about our lives and we experience constant surprises along the way, we need not give way to panic. Yes, our lives are out of our control, but that doesn't mean they are out of control. No, our lives are under the careful administration of the One who had the wisdom and power to be the great Author of it all.

No, this is eternal and deeply personal hope. It rests in the truth that Jesus has wrapped his powerful arms around you and he will never, ever let you go.

Because God is my Sovereign, my life is never out of control, and because he is my Savior, he blesses me with everything I need to live in the middle of things that are beyond my control. He is a sovereign Savior, which means I don't need to fear, because he is with me and he provides everything I need for the places where his plan leads me. He rules, and he graces me with everything I need to live inside his rule with peace, hope, and courage. Why, then, should I fear?

God will call you to do what you cannot do, but will provide everything you need to do it.