Bring Me Your Problems and Troubles

by Sarah Young, from Jesus Always

 Delight yourself in Me, beloved, and I will give you the desires of your heart.

Written as if Jesus Himself is speaking directly to the reader, Jesus Always invites you into a new way of living—a life of joy. Enjoy this selection of three devotions from the new Jesus Always!

A long-term problem can become an idol. When you are troubled by a situation that just won’t go away, it’s important to monitor your thoughts. An ongoing difficulty can occupy more and more of your thinking, until it looms in idolatrous proportions — casting ugly shadows on the landscape of your mind. When you realize this has happened, confess it to Me. Pour out your feelings as you seek to break free from the hurtful preoccupation. Acknowledge your weakness in the face of this hardship, and humble yourself under My mighty hand.

A problem-preoccupation makes you anxious. So I urge you to cast all your anxiety on Me — trusting that I care for you. You may have to do this thousands of times daily, but don’t give up! Each time you cast your worrisome concerns on Me, you are redirecting your attention from problems to My loving Presence. To strengthen these transactions, you can thank Me for caring so much for you. Remember that I not only died for you, I live to make intercession for you.

1 John 5:21; 1 Peter 5:6-7; Hebrews 7:25 NKJV

I am your Treasure! Sometimes you feel frazzled — pulled this way and that by people and circumstances around you. Your yearning for meaning and deep connection drives you into more and more activity. Even when your body is still, your mind tends to race — anticipating future problems and searching for solutions. You need to remember that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Me. Remind yourself of this glorious truth frequently, whispering:

“Jesus, You are my Treasure. In You I am complete.”

When you prize Me above all else, making Me your First Love, you are protected from feeling fragmented. Whenever you find your thoughts straying, you can train your mind to return to the One who completes you. This gives focus to your life and helps you stay close to Me. Living near Me, enjoying My Presence, involves seeking to obey My commands. I am telling you this so that My Joy may be in you and that your Joy may be complete.

Colossians 2:2-3; Revelation 2:4 NKJV; John 15:10-11
 

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One of My names is Wonderful Counselor. I understand you far, far better than you understand yourself. So, come to Me with your problems and insecurities, seeking My counsel. In the Light of My loving Presence you can see yourself as you really are: radiantly lovely in My brilliant righteousness. Though My righteousness is perfect, you will continue to struggle with imperfections — yours and others’ — as long as you live in this world. Still, your standing with Me is secure.Nothing in all creation can separate you from My Love!

A good counselor helps you recognize truth and live according to it. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. So be open and honest when you bring Me your concerns. Also, fill your mind and heart with My Word, which contains absolute truth.

A wonderful counselor is not only extremely good at helping people but also able to inspire delight or pleasure. Delight yourself in Me, beloved, and I will give you the desires of your heart.

Isaiah 9:6 NASB; Romans 8:38–39; John 18:37 NLT; Psalm 37:4

Our problems aren’t too big for Jesus. Our concerns are not too small. Our worries don’t escape His notice. Our fears matter to Jesus. Let’s share them with Him today and rest knowing He’s in full control!