Pray First // As Seasons Change

Pray First // As Seasons Change 

“…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. - Philippians 4:6-7

September is a season of change. Temperatures drop, leaves start to change color, and the kids begin a new school year. This can be a time of great joy and excitement, but it can also bring apprehension, worry, and fear.

The thought of returning to school can be daunting. Kids might be nervous to start at a new school or co-op, or about the additional work that comes with a new grade. Parents may also feel intimidated by the changes a new school year can bring, especially if they are navigating a new environment, co-op, or teaching a new grade at home. 

It is easy to become overwhelmed by the unknowns that lie ahead, but we are reminded that our God is near and cares deeply for us. Scripture encourages us time and again not to be anxious, but instead to “cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

In Matthew 6:25–34, Jesus tells us not to worry about the material things of life, pointing to examples in God’s creation. The birds of the air do not worry about storing food in barns, yet God provides for them. The lilies that grow in the field do not toil or spin, yet God produces beautiful flowers. Jesus explains that since God cares so much for birds and lilies, how much more must He care for us as His image-bearers.

So what should we do when we become anxious? All of us do at some point, whether we use the label “anxiety” or not. Philippians 4:6–7 gives us simple and specific instruction:

First, we are told to pray. As with anything, we should first bring our concerns to God in prayer and give Him our fears, laying them at His feet. God wants us to release our fears, worries, and anxieties to Him. 

Second, we are to be thankful. It is nearly impossible to be both anxious and thankful at the same time. Reflect on what He has already accomplished and conquered in your life–things that once caused you to worry–and thank Him for it. It is easy to forget what He has already done for us.

Lastly, let your requests be made known. Ask God specifically for your request. Whether it is the start of a new academic year, the bills that keep adding up, or the car that just will not work, God cares about you and will provide all that you need. Verse 7 goes on to tell us what the result will be: “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” That anxiety will be replaced with a peace from God that seems impossible given your current circumstance.

Next time you feel anxious or worried about a situation you are dealing with, remember God’s Word in Philippians and follow His steps to find peace amidst the seasons of life.

PRAISES

• Miracle Pond has been restored from extensive summer use.
• God has blessed us with a wonderful season of increased guest groups, allowing us to host new and returning church partners’ leadership and family retreats.
• New updates have begun behind the scenes to improve the camp website and share our history over the years.

PRAY FOR

• With our increase in guest groups, we are looking for additional volunteers to help serve in the kitchen and other areas including general maintenance, programming, and guest services.
• For resources, supplies, and giving to support building maintenance projects and repair/replace aging water heaters and boilers.
• For couples to deepen their connection and grow closer to the Lord at next weekend’s conference as they learn how to work through conflict and recognize the things that threaten their marriage relationship.
• For many hearts to be blessed during our upcoming ladies’ and men’s retreats.

We thank God for each one of you; your prayers and support are a tremendous blessing to our ministry, demonstrating how He works through the diligent hands and feet of His people!