Strong spirits: what are you worried about?
Carrying worry keeps you from joy, keeps you from peace.
A question: what are you worrying about right now? Next question? Why?
Given what God tells us and promises us, if you believe in God, worry is not just foolish, it's illogical. Consider...
"So then, forsake your worries!... Doesn't your heavenly Father already know the things your bodies require? So above all, constantly seek God's kingdom and his righteousness, then all these less important things will be given you abundantly. Refuse to worry about tomorrow... Tomorrow will take care of itself." Jesus to his followers (Matthew 6-31-34)
"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." the apostle Paul (Philippians 4:6,7)
Worry is not just foolish and illogical... it's arrogant. It is saying to God, "I don't trust you. I can take care of this better myself." Learning to let go of the things that concern us is a key step in our spiritual growth. Carrying worry keeps you from being effective in the work you are called to, keeps you from joy, keeps you from peace.
Give those worries to God, then thank him in advance for how he is going to meet every need.
Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - to see them all, subscribe to our daily email.
