I'm deeply persuaded that the secret to a confident heart and a peaceful night of sleep isn't a secret at all. Rather, it's plain-and-simple theology. By that, I mean trusting foundational principles that God lays out in his Word. Here are five: 1. Accept The Chaos We have a miniscule amount of control in a gargantuan universe. Each day will provide fresh trouble (Matthew 6:34). The more we try to manipulate the situations, locations, and relationships of life, the more we'll become exhausted and discouraged. Live responsibly and be wise, but recognize that you were not designed to govern this world. 2. Know The Facts Even though I just told you to accept the chaos, the Bible actually declares that everything in the universe is managed with complete and specific authority (Acts 17:26). Nothing is chaotic in God's eyes; he is never confused or taken off-guard. When we tell ourselves otherwise, it makes sense that we'll be stressed and anxious. 3. Trust The Father God is more than just a ruling deity, exercising his sovereign power of people and places. The Bible tells us that he is also good and will give his children everything we need and more (see Matthew 6:26-32 and 7:9-11). Your life is secure is the hands of a powerful and loving Father. 4. Pursue Spiritual Disciplines In the midst of trials, it's very tempting to abandon the spiritual disciplines of your faith and try to make it on your own. Pray, fast, meditate on and memorize Scripture, and keep attending worship services and small groups. Immerse yourself in God, his Spirit, his Word, and his body of believers. 5. Know Your Limits Too many Christians fret trying to decipher God's secret will for their lives. It's a secret, after all! Instead, we should rest within the clear limits of what God has made known to us. Let God be God, and let him establish our steps (Proverbs 16:9). You and I can sleep because God is wise, loving, and powerful. He is in moment-by-moment control of every detail of our lives.

We have fallen into the trap of believing that our calling is to enforce LAW, when in fact God has chosen for us to restore AWE.

It's very tempting to slide into an autonomous and self-sufficient lifestyle, so I've trained myself to start each day with three prayers. Reciting these before I even get out of bed reminds me of my need for community: 1. "Jesus, I'm a person in desperate need of help today." 2. "God, in your grace, send your helpers my way." 3. "Spirit, give me the humility to receive the help when it comes."