“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NIV)
The Message translation puts it even more clearly: “Live carefree before God; He is most careful with you.” Other translations include “Give all your worries and cares to God...” (NLT); “Pour out all your worries and stress…” (TPT); and “Turn all your worries over to Him.” (NIRV)
When a horse gets startled, or wants to graze, or walks too quickly or slowly while a human leads them from their pasture to the barn or arena or back again, it can be worrisome—at least it was for me in my early days. Looking back now, I’ve learned that I just need to calm my own anxieties and regain the distracted horse’s attention so they fix their eyes on me as their leader. With maneuvers such as walking her in a tight circle or backing him up a few steps, it is truly remarkable how easily a horse calms down or matches their pace with yours and waits for your next cue.
How much more when the Creator of the universe asks us to cast our cares upon Him, knowing that He cares for us and knows what’s best for us in ways we can’t comprehend? And let’s face it—God often resorts to getting our attention through unexpected changes of direction or unplanned delays.
When I feel distracted by the cares and worries of this life, or try to get ahead of God’s perfect plans, or procrastinate out of fear or perfectionism, or all of the above, I’ll often feel like I’m going in circles or sliding backwards. On good days, I’ll remember to stop and pray and redirect my thoughts towards “whatever is true, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely” (Philippians 4:8). As with a worrisome horse, practice and consistency are essential for me to enjoy more good days than not so good days.
With a horse, this means being present, in the moment, and focused—yet kind and caring. With my relationship with the Lord, practice and consistency in the form of daily worship, Bible study, and ongoing prayer throughout the day helps me to “live carefree before God” because I know God “is most careful with me.”
Consider This
In what circumstances are you most likely to panic like a skittish horse and forget to give your worries to God? How do daily worship, Bible study, and prayer help you remember to keep your thoughts on God? What will you do differently today to “live carefree before God”?
Prayer
Lord, help me to remember to fix my eyes on You today. Help me respond to Your gentle reminders and set my heart upon You so I can receive Your perfect peace. In Jesus name, Amen.