Jenga is one of the most popular party games. Its name comes from a Swahili word meaning “to build.” Now, picture the Jenga tower standing sturdy and tall. As each player takes their turn, the missing blocks destabilize the structure and bring it to the brink of collapse. Each player becomes more anxious as the game progresses, and sure enough, when a key piece is removed, the tower comes crashing down. Sometimes life can feel a lot like Jenga.
In today’s challenging times, many are left overwhelmed and exhausted; even balancing day-to-day life can feel unsettling. According to Psychology Today, anxiety and depression are on the rise globally. So what do we do when facing a mountain of unsteady circumstances? Where do we turn when even the best coping mechanisms fail us?
First, we need to acknowledge that there is a God who cares about us. He is ever-present and all-loving. God is still in control, no matter how chaotic things appear to be. The Bible teaches us that those who put their trust and confidence in Jesus will never be let down. Our part in experiencing God’s care is to approach Him in prayer, recognize our limits, and thank Him for being a good provider. Our anxious minds then become still.
Thankfully, we can also rely on God’s peace. It is His gift to us, and it is found in the person of Jesus Christ. The world tells us we should strive to control our circumstances, but God’s peace will give us guidance, strength, and the courage we need to persevere. As we allow God’s peace to rule in our hearts, we become better equipped to prevent stress from toppling us over. Ultimately, peace through Jesus Christ makes balance easier to maintain.
Let’s remind ourselves to ask for God’s grace when facing mounting fears and towering concerns that steal our attention, time, and energy. Turn to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, who delivers all who trust in Him. Even if the Jenga blocks start tumbling down, as they will from time to time, don’t give up. God is there. He promises to keep us peaceful on the inside. The gift of God’s peace, in turn, becomes the foundation for building steady faith and a soul-satisfying hope!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed.
Beautifully written analogy and an uplifting message of God’s love for us.