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Last week I walked outside, looked up, and saw a beautiful moon. Before I could grab my phone for a picture, swiftly moving clouds threatened my view. At first, I could still see a little of the moon, though it was hazy, but soon only clouds were visible. I knew the moon was still there, and that my view would return, but I’m not always patient, and I gave up.

And just as instantly as the appearance of those clouds, my thoughts turned to prayer. I know that God is present, and I often see His goodness, His faithfulness, and His sovereignty at work. But I must admit that I sometimes allow circumstances, doubt, or fear to cloud my view. When that happens, it’s up to me to push aside the things that threaten how clearly I see God.

I don’t deny doctor’s reports, financial statements, challenges in relationships, or weaknesses in my own character, but I intentionally choose to elevate the promises in God’s Word above all else. In those moments, my prayers sound something like this, “God, 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds me that You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. So I choose to push aside fear and instead focus my mind on Your faithfulness.”

Or, “Thank you for early detection and the wisdom You’ve given doctors. Like David wrote in Psalm 103, I do not want to forget all that You do. You heal disease and I trust You to restore Brandi’s health.”

Let’s move aside whatever is dimming our view of God. He is there. Don’t give up.

Ronny Michel can be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.