We will have tough times in life.  Jesus said so.

John 16:33 (ESV) I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

There are three little words that get lost in this verse of seemingly disparing news.  “But take heart” It’s a choice.  You can lose heart or take it… the option is yours.

How?

When it comes to our problems we usually do turn to many things:

• Call someone and talk about it.
• Post it on Facebook (for those with no filter).
• Get mad and/or bitter.
• Take it out on the ones we love
• Give up.

And yeah, you could do all those things… but are you praying about it?

Philippians 4:6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

What is wrong in your life?  Are you praying about it?

There’s a promise in this passage that has to do with the heart in the very next verse… Philippians 4:7 (ESV) And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Taking heart starts with taking it to God in prayer.  In another passage Jesus says in John 14:1 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.”

You have charge over your heart.  Whatever attempts to weigh it down, or shake it up does not have to achieve its fullest effect.  The Proverb backs this idea up well: “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well-spring of life.” Proverbs 4:23

Are you standing guard?

You can complain, fuss, moan, groan, and divulge it to the world…

Or you can pray… and God will guard.