Finding Peace in a World of Anxiety
Finding peace seems like an elusive quest in a world of rising anxiety, where inflation erodes spending power and notifications demand constant attention. The pressure to meet performance, athletic, and fashion standards adds to the burden, making it challenging to navigate daily life without the crippling weight of stress.
For those in their middle years, responsibilities may even multiply, encompassing tending to personal well-being, nurturing children, and caring for aging parents. For some in this stage of life, having management roles at work then bring the additional stress of overseeing employees’ welfare and performance.
The demands on individuals, both young and old, are overwhelming.
Amid this chaos, we must point ourselves to Jesus, the source of peace. This message is prevalent in the biblical narrative of John the Baptist. As we explore John’s baptism ministry, we discover a powerful lesson on surrender as the antidote to anxiety.
Surrender: the Antidote to Anxiety
The narrative unfolds with Jesus and his disciples baptizing in the Judean countryside. John, too, is baptizing at Aenon near Salim. As the story progresses, a conflict arises. John’s disciples express concern about Jesus’ baptisms, likely stemming from a subtle undercurrent of pride and jealousy. John’s response, however, provides a profound insight into finding peace:
“He must become greater; I must become less.” —John 3:30
This key to peace lies in redirecting focus away from oneself and towards Jesus. One analogy that applies is that of a best man at a wedding. The best man’s job is to serve the groom and emphasize his joy, rather than seek personal recognition. This is what John the Baptist tries to show his disciples—it’s exactly how he views the importance of his own ministry. John is ushering in the Son of God, not competing with Jesus for attention.
Six Areas of Surrender
Surrender My Control to God’s Plan: Acknowledge God’s sovereignty over life’s course, even when it seems unexpected or challenging
Surrender My Worry to God’s Power: Trust that God, not worry, holds control over life’s uncertainties
Surrender My Impatience to God’s Timing: Accept that God’s timing may differ from personal expectations, and practice patience in the midst of the waiting
Surrender My Hurt to God’s Healing: Embrace God's ability to heal emotional wounds and redefine personal identity
Surrender My Effort to God’s Salvation: Recognize that salvation is not earned through human efforts but is a free gift from God
Surrender My Pride and Jealousy to God’s Glory: Redirect focus from self-promotion to glorifying God and his purposes
Cosmic Peace Through Belief
This week’s message concludes with a call to believe in Jesus, the source of eternal life. Rejecting Jesus keeps us in a state of spiritual conflict. The peace offered through accepting Christ is cosmic, transcending any past mistakes or regrets.
“Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” —John 3:36
In a world overwhelmed by anxiety, the path to peace lies in surrender—surrendering control, worry, impatience, hurt, effort, and pride. Through the lens of John the Baptist'‘ teachings, we find a timeless message of finding true peace in the embrace of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Blog adapted from December 10, 2023 message by Minister Mark Ashton
