Almost everyone has seen shirts or posters or mugs starting with “Keep Calm…”, followed by something like “and Drive On” or “and Enjoy the Day.” There are all sorts of variations, but all start with that same sage advice, “Keep Calm.”
The original saying was “Keep Calm and Carry On”. It was found on posters issued by the British Ministry of Information during World War II in an attempt encourage British citizens to stay calm in the face of aerial bombardment and possible invasion by Nazi Germany. In recent years, in reaction to the stresses of modern life, this saying has again gained popularity, with multiple variations.
“Keep Calm” is something that’s a lot easier to say than to actually do. Just watching the evening news can send your stress level into the stratosphere. Add on the pile of bills on your kitchen table, layoffs at work, relationship problems, or any of the innumerable challenges we face each day, and you have the recipe for a serious anxiety attack. It’s no wonder anxiolytics and anti-depressants are some of the most widely prescribed drugs in the world today.
It doesn’t have to be this way, though. God offers a solution. He invites you to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NIV). He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). He wants to carry this load for you, if you will only surrender it to Him. When you do “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7).
No matter what challenges you are facing today, remember you are not alone. God is on your side. Just as He delivered Israel from their enemies so long ago, He can deliver you. If you will let Him, “The Lord Himself will fight for you” so “Just stay calm.” (Exodus 14:14 NLT).
Whatever comes your way today don’t give up. God is with you. “Cast all your anxiety on Him”. then “Keep Calm and Carry On”. God’s got this!
Good Advice!