by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
In those moments I cycle back to the truths that have sustained me in the past. Perhaps it is better stated that God reminds me of those truths that sustain and encourage me. He meets me in the dark night of my soul and speaks life into my heart and mind, reminding me that He is my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore I will not fear (Psalm 46:1-2). He invites me to, Be still, and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10); to cease from anxious thoughts and find rest in Him, for He has promised, My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest (Exodus 33:14).
I call out to God and wait for Him in the silence, learning as Mark Buchanan has observed: Silence is the room we create for the searching of God, where we hear His voice and follow (Your God Is Too Safe). Like the Psalmist, I call out to God. To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit. Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help (Psalm 28:1-2). Time and again, God has come to me and spoken words of assurance into my life, allowing me to both draw near to Him and find His promised rest.
In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid.
Psalm 56:3-4
As He walks with me during this season, His presence is a precious gift. For this I am grateful. In Him I rest secure.
As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending,
and I know true joy and contentment.
Psalm 16:11