I unzipped my computer bag and fumbled through the contents. Then, I lifted a paper-clipped stack of papers and placed them on my lap.
I took a deep breath. I can do this.
I read the first page and gulped. I think I’ll put this one on the bottom of the stack.
I looked at the next page. Whew! This one can wait, too.
Then, I saw it—a line-by-line, detailed list of all the tasks expected from “the author.”
Yikes, that’s me!
I felt my pulse increasing. I took another deep breath and remembered the scripture my daughter-in-law, Jenni, had reminded me of that day at lunch.
I agreed. Yes, I am “confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil 1:6 NIV).
And “I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13),” I whispered in prayer.
I repeated another promise to myself, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Tim. 1:7 NKJV).
Lord, I know you will help me complete these tasks. So, once again, I give this project to you. You also promise that your grace is all I need—that your power works best in weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). Well, I’m trusting in your power right now to help me complete this project.
I looked at the time—10:30 PM. Well, that’s part of my problem right there. I need some rest before I try to tackle this.
Yes, I did need REST—one of the basic prayer strategies that I had been writing about in my book project, Words That Change Everything: Speaking Truth to Your Soul.
R.E.S.T.—Remember. Exalt. Surrender. Trust.
The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything. But in every situation, 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.
(Phil 4:5-7 NIV)
