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Today we begin a devotional series to help us navigate times of stress and anxiety by putting our trust in God’s faithfulness.
Visit our blog every day to get read the latest devotional. This series is contributed by Natalie G.

In 2011 I began a journey that I never wanted to take.  I was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. We’re not talking about worrying too much but a full-blown disorder where my body would be in a constant state of panic with various physical symptoms even when I wasn’t thinking about anything in particular. It was an incredibly difficult time and it took me a long time to be thankful for the experience. But given the current situation where the world is sitting on the edge of their seat, I can now say I’m glad I learnt the lessons I did so that I can cope today.  I’d like to share with you some of the things that I feel God taught me during these times and hopefully encourage some of you that might be fearful. I hope also to give some practical tips to help those that feel overwhelmed.

“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you.  I said “You are my servant; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.  So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  Isaiah 41:9-10

Well, I certainly feel like I’ve been taken from the farthest corners of the earth. I was born and raised in New Zealand and here I am living in Germany. I never really know how to answer people that ask why we live here. Ultimately, I believe this is where God wants us for now. I don’t understand the reasons and it’s really difficult knowing my mother is alone in New Zealand at this time. Throughout my journey I learnt scriptures like the one above. I memorised them until I believed their truth.

I pray not that the trial will end, because I know it will. I’m praying that he will strengthen us all to endure the trial.

At the time of my diagnosis I had many difficult things happening around me and the expression ‘It doesn’t rain, it pours’ seems fitting. Yet whenever I use that expression I am reminded of a book ‘When It Pours, HE Reigns’ by Holly Wagner.  The title is probably the best thing about the book but it’s a reminder that God is Sovereign and in control. He knows me, he knows where I live and ultimately, he knows why I live here. Maybe you have more than the Coronavirus to think about at the moment. Maybe you feel like it’s really pouring. Remember he reigns above it all. I pray not that the trial will end, because I know it will. I’m praying that he will strengthen us all to endure the trial.

— Natalie G.