Keep Calm and Carry On

Last week, we discussed how we need to take the fight to the devil and do everything we can to irritate him. Importantly, we should stand strong knowing that God has a plan for us. He wants us to be confident, calm, and collected as we rest in his promises. That brings us to today’s verse which is from Jeremiah 29:11 which says,

“For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.

One example from last week’s lesson was Winston Churchill’s “ungentlemanly” war tactics with Germany and we discussed how we need to have the same take-it-to-the-enemy mindset with the devil. On the home front during WWII, the British posted three “Home Publicity” posters which included:

• Freedom is in Peril. Defend it with all your might.
• Your Courage, Your Cheerfulness, Your Resolution Will Bring Us Victory
• Keep Calm and Carry On

The message was – 1) we are at war, 2) each individual’s commitment to the effort is important and 3) start with calmness, courage, cheerfulness, and a strong personal resolution.

In the same way, today we’re facing many uncertainties around the world and at home. Our minds naturally go to worst-case-scenarios, creating fear and anxiety. But, as always, the Bible provides hope and assurance in times like these.

Today’s  verse from the prophet Jeremiah was written to the exiled people of Judah who were taken into captivity by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. These exiles were facing far more horrific circumstances than any of us are likely to encounter in our lifetime. They went from being part of the proud and strong kingdom of Judah into slavery. But God wanted them to be at peace knowing that he had a plan to prosper them, not harm them, to give them hope and a future. And, He kept his promise to liberate them, bringing them back home and, as promised, prospering them.

No matter how difficult or troubling our circumstances, God wants us to first remain calm and focus our minds on Him. For me, the idea of sticking it to the devil and bringing a smile to God’s face is great motivation to remain calm and carry on……that is, carry on loving and glorifying God.

Questions:

1. Do you agree that one of the best things we can do to bring a smile to God’s face (and stick it to the devil) is to remain calm in turbulent times? Why or why not?
2. If God had a plan to prosper the people of Judah, why would He allow them to be taken into exile for 70 years? Why allow them to go through such a horrific experience?
3. Related to the last question, can you think of an example of how it might make sense for a parent to allow a child to face difficult circumstances?
4. If God’s promises are so clear in the Bible, why do we all struggle to react calmly and confidently (resting in God’s promises) during challenging times?
5. If your goal was to remain calm the next time you encountered an anxiety-producing situation, what is something you could do to prepare in advance?