Don’t Allow Fear to Choke your Joy in God

“Be anxious in nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all human understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:6-7

I have flown on numerous airplanes throughout my lifetime. When I was a young boy and teenager, I had the luxury of flying to Florida, the Bahamas, Cancun, Mexico, and Germany. Now as an adult, I fly every year to my wife’s native land, Ukraine. Despite my numerous adventures 36,000 feet above sea level, my heart still beats excessively and my hands get sweaty before take off. I notice my prayers are more fervent and passionate than normal.

This year, when flying from Amsterdam to Detroit, we experienced some bad weather. The pilot told the passengers before take off, “A storm is brewing in the area so make sure your seat belts are securely fastened.” As we jetted down the runway, lifted up and soared into the clouds, all of a sudden there was a loud bang that shook the plane. I looked to my left and the young man sitting next to me said, “I think our wing got struck by lightning.”

A wave of fear struck me as I anticipated for the worst. A couple minutes later the captain announced on the intercom, “Ladies and gentlemen, our plane has been struck by lightning. However, do not fear because no damage was done. Also, our aircraft is built with special material to withstand an electrical discharge as strong as a lightning bolt. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the rest of your flight.”

The captain’s voice was so reassuring that the frog in my throat dissipated, my heart beat diminished, and my hands stopped shaking. As I looked around the flight deck, the facial expressions were filled with relief and joy. Everyone had a peace and confidence that everything would be okay because the captain was calm.

The same is true when we seek God. He is our captain in life, and when he informs us that “all things will work together for good to those who are called to His purposes” it brings instant relief and a peace that transcends human understanding. When you experience turbulence in life, whether it’s depression, loss of a loved one, being fired from a job, or physical malady, don’t ignore your captain Jesus Christ. He is your Creator, sustainer, and knows how to land your life safely to its final destination: heaven. God’s word informs us that if we ask, it will be given. If we seek, we will find. If we knock, the door will be opened. Don’t ignore the only one who can save you. Put your trust in faith in Him today!