Voices of the Faithful - March 1st (page 76)
Prayer: Peace of Mind

“You answered me when I called to you; with your strength you strengthened
me.” Psalm 138:3 (GNT)

When my family felt called to Africa, I had misgivings. Images of starving
children, deadly snakes, spiders and incurable diseases most concerned
me. As God gently wooed us toward the African soil, I realized
that most of my fears were unfounded and that with every possible
danger, there was plenty of prevention available.

To combat malaria, we hung mosquito nets above all our beds. The
net is nothing more than a giant piece of mesh draped from ceiling to
floor over one’s sleeping quarters. It’s thin, delicate and not so attractive.
Yet I want that net hanging over my head on hot African nights
for peace of mind.

As much faith as I put in that gossamer sheet, I know it can’t protect
me against the real dangers in the dark. The Word of God plainly
states that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual
forces of wickedness (Eph. 6:12). As badly as I want to protect
my children, true peace of mind doesn’t come from a mesh curtain,
but from prayer. The greatest insurance available is the mighty power
tucked away in a praying heart. While we are not guaranteed the results
we want, we are guaranteed something even greater: God’s undivided
attention, God’s unyielding power and God’s perfect will displayed
right before our eyes.

I trust my mosquito net on still African nights, because in my heart I
believe it is the safest guard against disease. But the true reason I rest peace-
fully is that I know my nightly pillow prayers are the greatest covering.

—Kelley, Sub-Saharan Africa

Dear Lord, thank You that protection for my family and loved ones comes from
You. Help me to trust You in all things, and give me grace to face difficulties.
Amen..

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Read more "Voices of the Faithful" devotions from Sub-Saharan Africa.