Scripture: 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) – “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Message: With technology within our reach, we are constantly being reminded of global suffering, from devastating events to moments of vulnerability shared online.  Staying informed can inspire sympathy and make us quick to judge as these events can weigh heavily on our hearts.  Continuous exposure to tragedy and division often leads to restlessness, hopelessness, or judgment.

As followers of Christ, we are not to carry these burdens alone.  In 1 Peter 5:7, God invites us to cast our anxieties on Him because He cares for us.  The struggles within our society do not rest solely on our shoulders, but on His.  When overwhelmed by the darkness of this world, we are reminded to turn to God, seeking His peace and guidance through prayer and reflection.

Instead of letting hopelessness and negativity consume us, let’s focus on ways to bring light into the world.  Reflect on Christ’s teachings and ask how you can demonstrate His love in your daily life.  This can be a simple act of kindness, volunteering, a moment of prayer for someone in need, or sharing an encouraging word.  These acts can rectify the hopelessness with the light of Christ.  The troubles of this world may seem vast, but God’s power is infinitely greater.  By trusting Him with our burdens, we can find peace and strength through His light.  Rest in His promises and know that He is always in control.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for carrying our burdens and caring for us deeply.  Help us to trust You in overwhelming moments and to reflect Your light to those around us.  Guide us in Your peace.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Lauren Nidositko

Scripture: 1 Kings 19:11-13 (NIV) – “The Lord said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind, there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”

Message: In moments of isolation, like Elijah’s in the desert, we often feel overwhelmed by societal expectations and pressures.  The world demands productivity, success, and constant connection, leaving us feeling lost and lacking purpose.  Yet, it is in these solitary moments that God can truly speak to us, and not necessarily in the way we might have expected.  Elijah waited, and in his stillness, he encountered the gentle whisper of God – reminder that His presence often comes not in the loud, chaotic moments, but in the quietness of our hearts.

Isolation can be a time of self-discovery and renewal.  It invites us to confront our identity beyond societal roles and to listen for God’s voice.  Instead of seeing isolation as a burden, let’s embrace it as an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God, allowing Him to clarify our purpose and calling.  When we quiet the noise around us, we can better understand the awesome nature and character of God, who we are and what we are meant to do.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of solitude.  Help us to find purpose in our waiting and to hear Your voice amidst the chaos of life.  Grant us the courage to embrace our times of isolation as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.  May we trust that You are with us, guiding us toward our true calling.  In Jesus’ name, we pray.  Amen.

Lauren Nidositko

Revised: February 19, 2025