A friend recently told me that when problems come, she’s learned to “take it to the Throne, not the phone.”

I laughed out loud. I too am learning to take everything to God first (pray about it, read his Word) and then maybe call someone for advice. This habit has taken me years to learn and I still don’t always get it right.

God promises us we will have problems in this life, but He also promises peace even if we don't understand what is happening. “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Father God, I’ve noticed that when I humble myself and go to You first, You are quick to respond. “God is our strength and refuge, A very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 But, when I try to figure things out on my own or call someone to ask their advice or opinion before I ask You; often, I get off the phone feeling worse than I did before I called. You say in Deuteronomy 4:24, “For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.” You don’t allow another to have the honor that is due to You alone. You are zealous to protect what belongs to You and You are constantly drawing Your children to put You first. (John MacArthur Study Bible) Help me to remember this Truth. Amen.

Oh, and p.s.; help me to remember that You are the One I should please, not man or what people think about me! Amen.

Thus says the Lord: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the Lord Jeremiah 17:5

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