Years ago, when I had an appointment to go to that I was dreading, the Lord gave me a Scripture that encourages me to this day. It’s Psalm 71:16 (NKJV), which says, “I will go in the strength of the Lord God.” I’ve discovered that when I declare this verse, trusting the Lord to strengthen and empower me, He is faithful to provide me with everything I need to persevere and prevail.
I’ve also discovered that it’s important for me to cooperate with God to prepare myself properly for stressful appointments and events. I do that by confessing my fears and anxieties to the Lord, and praying in advance for His help. The psalmist declared, “I am too distressed even to pray!” (Psalm 77:4 NLT) Often, that’s exactly how I feel, too, once I’m in the midst of a stressful situation. Then, my prayers are not as focused, and my thinking is often scattered.
I always ask the Lord for a favorable outcome, and I ask Him for the desires of my heart. I also say things like, “Lord, I’m trusting You to make this appointment go well for me.” Or, “I’m expecting You to work mightily on my behalf.” I’ve learned that God will do things for us when we pray, that He won’t do for us when we don’t pray.
The next time you are facing something that fills you with fear and dread, make your mind up to “go in the strength of the Lord God,” and to cooperate with Him for your victory and success!