We all have them—times that our feet get knocked out from under us. Life happens and we feel blind-sided by pain and sorrow.

Betrayal. Death. Financial hardship. Sickness. Job loss.

We feel trapped in a cloud of confusion and no matter how hard we pray, we can’t feel God’s presence or see His hand in our circumstances.

This is when we hold to God’s promises—when we cling with a desperate faith, throwing ourselves at the foot of the Cross and laying bare our doubts and fears.

This is when we take a trembling step of faith and trust in the heart of God.

These verses have been my lifeline in times of extreme distress. I pray they will minister to your heart today.
 1—You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)

Father, I don’t understand what is happening in my life. I don’t see Your plans or purposes. But Lord, I’m going to fix my thoughts on You. Help me to focus on Your heart and character and to remember the vastness and depth of Your love. Even in this storm, I claim Your promise of perfect peace.

2—Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life. (Philippians 4:6–7 MSG)

Father God, I am consumed with doubt and worry. I am under attack by the enemy—by his whispers that You have forgotten me. Help me, Father! Guide me as I shape my worries into prayers. Let my heart overflow with petitions and praises, crowding out the voice of the evil one. With all my heart, Lord, I long for You to displace worry at the center of my life. Thank you for your promise of peace and wholeness.

3—When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. (Psalm 94:19 NIV)

Lord of all creation, in spite of this present storm, You are—Life, Holiness, Joy, Peace, Hope, Everlasting Father, Rock of Ages, Prince of Peace, Savior, Master, Eternal One. You give joy and stability in the midst of chaos. You do not change. You are solid ground. Thank you, Jesus. I love You.

What are your favorite verses when the storms rage and you can’t see God’s hand?

Praying you have a blessed week…

Joyfully,

Leigh Ann