“Giving It to God” (Day 22)

Verse of the Day
“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.” – Philippians 4:6-7
 
I was born in 1938 and grew up in Littleton, Maine. Life was simple then. We didn’t have much, but we had family, and that meant a lot.
 
My father worked long hours on a farm for his cousin. We didn’t see him much during the week, mostly on Saturdays and Sundays. My mother was the one who held everything together. She had a lot of spirit. I always say she was a little crazy—in the good way, like me. She was the glue that kept our family connected.
 
Church was a regular part of life. We went every Sunday morning and evening. During summer Bible school, when I was around seventh or eighth grade, something important happened. I remember reading a book there and realizing that I wanted to believe in Jesus for myself. I accepted Him in my heart. That was the beginning of my faith.
 
Later I married my husband Bob and moved to Houlton. We raised three children together. Some of the happiest years of my life were when all the kids were at home. The house was busy and full of life.
 
Of course, children grow up and move away. The house became quiet. These days one of my greatest joys is my great-grandson Canon. When he visits, the room fills with energy again.
 
Over the years I’ve also learned something about worry. There were times when I stayed awake at night thinking about problems I couldn’t fix. Eventually I realized I couldn’t carry everyone’s burdens. Now when worries come, I turn them over to God. I trust Him with them, and I sleep better.
 
One hymn from my childhood still stays with me: “Life’s Railway to Heaven.” Life really is a journey. Through every season, I’m learning to trust that God is leading the way. – Jo-Ann Barton
 
Thought for the Day
When worries begin to weigh on your heart, how might you practice turning them over to God and trusting Him with the journey ahead?

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