Thursday, January 15, 2015

Worry Well

Here is the list of things Americans worry about more than anything else: Getting to heaven, money and the economy, what comes after death, individual health, relationship with significant other, terrorism, health of a family member, Bird Flu (or some other strain), job, and the end of the world.

Perhaps you could add several to the list: What people think of you, bullies, war, crime, what your teenagers are doing, car trouble, etc…

Let’s admit it, worry is something we all do and something most of us think we shouldn’t do. But worry itself is not a bad thing. It’s how we worry and how we respond that determines if our sleepless nights are helpful or paralyzing, motivating or depressing, a path to despair or a path to peace.

Sometimes worry can be a good thing. (Take the time to read Proverbs 22:3, 2 Corinthians 7:5-6 and 11:27-29, Philippians 2:19-21 and Luke 22:41-45) We can’t control our feelings but we can control our response.

If you want to discover how to worry well, Philippians 4:4-9 gives us some tips. First, the right kind of prayer. You need to tell God exactly what you want. You need to thank God for all He has already done. Pray Philippians 4:4-9 as often as you need to. (See also Psalm 55:17, Luke 18:1-8 and John 14:27)

The right kind of focus is the second tip to discover how to worry well. What we focus on determines what we see. Focus on facts, not the “what if’s”. The “what if’s” will destroy you. (Read Philippians 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, 1 Peter 1:5-7 and 2 Corinthians 10:5)

The last tip is the right kind of life. (See Philippians 4:9) Obedience breeds confidence whereas guilt produces fear. Sin honestly removes God’s protection. (cf 1 Peter 3:12-14)

The next time you find yourself in a state of worry, why not try these tips?

Blessings, 



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