One of my favorite quotes: “When you’re up to your neck in alligators, it’s difficult to remember your objective is to drain the swamp.” These days, at least in my world, the alligators seem to win most times. I worry about the pandemic and my family, I worry about my own health, I worry about the state of the country and the world, I hurt for friends who are hurting through serious illnesses and those who have lost loved ones; I’m being consumed by the alligators.

  But just when that alligator is about to take the final bite out of me … I think and remember … “Be Still and Know that I am GOD.” And I can breathe a sigh of relief when I can hear that quiet voice inside of me saying, “Fear not because when you pass through the fire, you WILL NOT be burnt …”

  And I can relax for a bit in God’s arms knowing that HE is in control of this world and has only the best plans for me … “for prosperity and not evil.”

  Have you been still lately or are you like me and have alligators nibbling up your rear end with worry, fear, stress, anxiety, too many holiday plans, etc? STOP IT! Take a breath. Listen to God in your heart and soul and mind. I do not think HE cares that we go to church virtually or in person. I do not think HE cares that we go to every Christmas party and event at our church and community. I do not think HE cares if we have these lavish musical programs that take us away from home and family several nights a week. All HE wants is for us to love HIM, talk to HIM, listen to HIM, and take care of our temples (bodies, not churches).

  So, now, what are you going to do about the alligators? That is up to you, but I will be praying that we all can calm down and “be still and know that HE is GOD.”

  And for today my friends, this has been the gospel according to Jimmy.

  Jimmy Cochran is a resident of McDonough, a musician, a minister and the author of Being God’s and Staying God’s, both available at Amazon.com. Being God’s is also available at Moye’s Pharmacy in McDonough.