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PSALM 37:1-7

"RESTING IN THE LORD"

Intro: We are living in a world of turmoil, there are pressures brought against us daily
       that create anxiety, worry and fear. I often cry out to God, "What do you want me
       to do?" He  answers, "Just rest in Me."

I. "REST IN THE LORD" IS ONE OF THE MOST DIFFICULT COMMANDMENTS IN THE BIBLE.
        A. Especially when it seems nothing is happening.
                1. The situation hasn't apparently changed from what it was a year ago.
                        a. I don't seem to be any closer to a solution, maybe farther.
                        b. I feel the time has come for action, maybe God does help those...
        B. I often feel as though God might need my help to accomplish His purpose.
                1. Often in situation, I feel like calling out, "need any help God?"
                        a. I'm afraid He might answer, "Yes, why don't you keep the
                           world spinning on its axis for a while."
                2. I desire action, I can't understand the delay.
                        a. Yet I am told, "wait patiently for Him."

II. WHAT'S MY ALTERNATIVE? WHAT'S PLAN "B"?
        A. Often a decision doesn't seem so good until I consider the alternative.
                1. To jump into the firemen's net 6 floors below.
        B. Do something about it.
                1. We don't always know what to do.
                2. Many times what we do is totally wrong.
        C. Abraham and Sarah decided on an alternate plan.
        D. Jacob tried an alternate plan.
                1. Almost lost his life for it.

Ill. "REST IN THE LORD" IS THE FIFTH IN A SERIES.
        A. Vs. 1 "Fret not thyself." Don't get upset.
        B. Vs. 3 "Trust in the Lord."
        C. Vs. 4 "Delight thyself in the Lord."
        D. Vs. 5 "Commit thy way unto the Lord."
        E. To obey these commands one must have certain basic foundational truths.
                1. God is above all and over all.
                        a. Greater power in God to help than of Satan to hinder.
                2. God is interested in you and your situation.
                        a. He is not some abstract impersonal force in the universe.
                        b. He is an all-wise, all-knowing, loving heavenly Father.
                        c. "Cast your cares upon Him, for He cares for you."