Worry. From butterflies in your stomach before an important meeting to the horrible, heart racing horror of a panic attack – we are all familiar with worry on some level. We live in a world that gives us plenty to worry about.
Recent events in our country have sparked much anxiety. As we sit with friends at lunch, we speculate about the current economic and political climate. Those discussions cause many of us to worry about our future. As jobs are lost, interest rates climb and our country’s status downgrades – worry is an ever present emotion for many of us.
In Christ, we know we have hope and eternal security – so why is it sometimes so difficult to feel that? How can we bring this knowledge to bear on our racing little hearts? What can I do to help me take Jesus at his word when He tells me not to worry?
Turn away from the control
We don’t control the universe. We don’t even control our own lives to a large extent. Often the worry we feel comes from a deceptive and deep seated conviction of that we are more in control that we really are. When worry hits, we need the sharp reminder God gave to Job: ““Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” (Job 38:4) God goes on to remind Job (and us) that He set up the universe and controls every part of it. He always has and always will. God is in control, not us.
Turn to God’s character
Our comfort doesn’t just come from the knowledge that God is in control, it also comes from knowing what type of God is in control. God’s Word never lets you miss what he is like. He is described as “abounding in love” throughout the Bible. We are told that he works all things for our good (Romans 8:28). We are told that he knows what you need before you ask for it (Matthew 6:8). We are told that he is the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17).
Make sure that the God in your head matches the God of the Bible – the Father who loves to care for his children. Don’t believe the lie that Adam and Eve fell for in the garden – the lie that God was holding from good from them. If we hold to God’s character, we remember that everything that comes our way is in the hands of God who has ordained it. He has not lost control or interest. He’s not messing with you for fun. He is actively working in all things to grow you and glorify himself.
Turn to prayer
“ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6 – 7) God’s word gives us his remedy for worry: prayer. Sleepless nights are an opportunity to talk to your Father. Those anxious moments before an exam are an opportunity to talk to your Father. Politics and the economy are an opportunity to talk to your Father. Having access to our Father in heaven is a great privilege and joy. If worry and anxiety send me running to him more, then I’m deeply grateful for worry.
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