“For this reason I say to you — do not be anxious …” (Matthew 6:25, DLNT).

For almost a year, my heart has carried a quiet yet constant anxiety. If you are a parent whose child has left home to pursue studies overseas, you will understand this ache—the longing, the worry, and the empty spaces left behind. Each day, I brought this one burden before God, praying earnestly for His divine protection over her life, and for a way for her to return and be close to me again in His perfect time. I never doubted that God heard my prayers. From the very moment my petitions left my mouth, I believed that He heard them, gathered them, and held them close to His heart. In this season of waiting, God was not absent, indifferent, or silent. Instead, He allowed me to see many changes in my daughter. I witnessed how she grew more independent, learned how to cook, and took good care of herself. I came to understand that, in His own way, God was training and moulding her character and personality as she lived and studied overseas. Though I missed her terribly, I knew that she was exactly where God wanted her to be at this point in our lives.

Why then does Scripture say, “Do not be anxious”? Because God knows exactly what we need and sees every circumstance we face. Yet He reminds us that the one thing we truly need is to remain focused on Him and to cultivate an intimate relationship with Him. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). God does not want us to drive ourselves to distraction over matters that are fully under His control. Dr. Pardington uses the imagery of dew to illustrate the necessity of spiritual quietness, refreshment, and the renewing work of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life. At night, when the leaves are still, the pores of the plant open to receive and absorb the dew. In the same way, spiritual refreshment comes from quiet lingering in the Master’s presence.

Many readers are familiar with Jesus’ words: “Look at the birds of the air” (Matthew 6:26) and “the lilies of the field” (Matthew 6:28). God watches over the birds—not one falls to the ground without His knowledge and consent (Matthew 10:29). He clothes the lilies of the field with such beauty, though they are here today and gone tomorrow (Matthew 6:30). If God cares so deeply for His creation, what happens when we truly put our trust and faith in Him into practice? “Will He not much more clothe you?” (Matthew 6:30).

Recently, we received the news that our daughter had been accepted into her dream university. Our whole family was elated and jumping for joy. My husband and I were practically out-jumping one another, because it meant she would be so much closer to us. I could hardly believe that God had not only answered my prayer for her to return nearer to home, but had also granted her the very university she had long hoped for. The “much more” I am experiencing now is truly indescribable.

Dear beloved friends and readers, even as you join me in celebrating God’s answered prayers in my life, I want to encourage and strengthen your hearts as well. Cast all your confusion, worries, and cares upon Him. Give your mind and heart a good “spring clean.” Refocus your walk and communion with God. Be at peace and enter into complete rest, allowing God’s grace to flow freely and renew your soul. As you come to a place of stillness before Him, may your spirit be refreshed as you experience His sweet presence and fragrance in your life.

“Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?”

— Jeremiah 32:27, NASB