Well I must admit just the title alone will capture just about anyone’s attention. Why? Because if we allow ourselves there are many things and reasons in life to be “worried” about. Truth is, worry today is no different from when Jesus walked the earth. His instruction on why “not” to worry are the same today as they were over two thousand years ago.
For some reason we think that “worry” is going to change things. Nothing could be farther from the truth. So why is “worry” so popular that nearly every human being gives into its temptation? I mean after all we have plenty of proof. Every day we’re faced with troubling circumstances and so we’re convinced that we must “worry” about them. I have some good news, we don’t have to give in to worry, not for one second! “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life--whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?” Then he goes on to say, “SO DON’T WORRY about these things…these things DOMINATE the THOUGHTS of unbelievers, BUT your heavenly Father ALREADY KNOWS all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God ABOVE ALL ELSE, and live righteously, AND HE WILL GIVE YOU EVERYTHING YOU NEED. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Mathew 6:25-34
So what’s the problem, why are our lives consumed with this monster of worry? Jesus gives us a very simple answer, so simple that we either don’t see it, or we’ve read it before and have forgotten what he said or we’re just so stubborn we don’t want to do it, we think our way is better. But the truth is Jesus tells the truth and if we can wrap our minds around what HE says, then we can get to a place, maybe even for the first time in our lives, and experience real “Peace” of mind. This my friend is called “Faith” And faith is simply trusting in what Jesus says. Trusting that God the creator of every living thing loves us so much that he has provided a way out. He’s provided a way where you and I don’t have to give in to worry and fear. The scriptures say, ” For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind” 2 Timothy 1:7. We can get up every day and “seek first His Kingdom” putting our minds on what he says not on our circumstances. When we begin to do this, nothing will be impossible, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him/her that believes” Mark 9:23. We will be filled with hope, trusting that he will “work all things together for Good…for those who love Him…for those who are called to his purpose” Begin thinking “these” thoughts, wake up and turn your attention to your heavenly Father and his promises. Do it all throughout the day until you “train” your thoughts to go directly toward him and not your circumstances. When you do this, you WILL experience His peace. You’ll have joy again. Why? Because you’re trusting Him to work things out, to lead and guide you and give you his wisdom.
“I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled and afraid.” John 14:27 nlt
YouTube Video “How to Lose Your Troubled Mind” by Pastor Rick Tidwell of Ponce Church
