I remember talking with a friend about the panic and fear that has consumed my life for years. After a lengthy explanation of what it was like to live with this condition, my friend responded, “Russ, I believe there is hope. I believe you can be free from this.”
Immediately, I put up a wall of defense. “You don’t understand,” I announced. “It’s easy for you to say. You don’t have this crippling anxiety. I’ve tried everything to get free from this.” My frustration and anger began to rise. My mind began to race through all the failed attempts to break free. Nothing worked for me. It was just too difficult.
In chapter 32 of Jeremiah, the prophet informed Zedekiah, king of Judah, that God planned to hand Jerusalem over to her enemies, King Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians. No one wanted to hear these words of judgment, including the king who imprisoned Jeremiah for his prophecy. The idea of the bondage that lay ahead must have overwhelmed the ruler (Jeremiah 32:17).
Yet Jeremiah beseeched the Lord: “You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You” (Jeremiah 32:17b).
Even in the depths of my discouragement and fear, I know that my situation is not too difficult for the Lord. He can help me in spite of myself. Even in the captivity of my despair, the Lord’s hand is not too short to save.
In response to Jeremiah’s earnest prayer, God promised, “Just as I have brought all this great calamity on this people, so I will bring on them all the good that I have promised them” (Jeremiah 32:42b).
Let me ask you a question that God asked Jeremiah and Abraham:
“Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14a, Jeremiah 32:27b).
Think about it. Answer carefully.
Prayer: Father, there is nothing beyond your ability. You can do anything because you are God. Help me to know that my condition is not too hard for you touch. Show me that freedom is feasible and peace is possible. Give me the courage to trust your strength.
