Don't Worry

If GOD doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks.
If GOD doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap.
It's useless to rise early and go to bed late,
and work your worried fingers to the bone.
Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves?
(Psalm 127:1-2, msg)

For those who don't know, I'm in the midst of studying for my preliminary exam. Virtually every night I say up late reading various book chapters and articles, only to forget the bulk of what I "learned" over the next few days. As you might imagine, this is pretty frustrating, especially given that the exam is just over 3 weeks away at this point. I can't say that I'm freaked out, because I know that God will give me victory over the exam if I do my part and put in a good faith effort, but it is definitely unsettling.

A friend recently asked what I thought the problem was, and I mentioned that I was feeling like I had drifted in my relationship with God-- almost to the point that I didn't feel like I "had time" to clear my head and spend some true quality time with God. I'm sure you all see the obvious flaw in this sort of thinking...since when is an exam more important than making things right with God?!

Life is tough and the world lays many burdens on our shoulders. We can work as hard and as long as we want at achieving the goals that define us as "successful," but if God is not part of the equation our human effort means nothing. The result can only be more frustration, followed by failure. Giving God your best, and spending quality time regularly with him does not necessarily mean that he will take the cup from you (luke 22:42), but it does insure that you do not labor in vain. If you are right with God then there is no need to worry about the responsibilities that burden you. God will give you the strength you need to press on.

Trusting God you just can't go wrong.

-AMR