"I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened." ~Mark Twain
Regardless of age, marital status, or stage in life, we all have our own
set of concerns. Parents have a long list of worries ranging from potty
training to paying off college debt. Singles worry about traveling
life's journey alone. Senior citizens worry about declining health
issues. Financial concerns rank high on the worry list, and some
families struggle to keep afloat. Teenagers worry about peer
acceptance, grades, and choosing a career. The list is endless for
every age group.
Worry is rooted in fear and is usually related to a deep concern of what
will or will not happen in the future. Worry can keep us up at night
and send anxiety levels soaring. Like a thief in the night, worry robs
us of our peace and joy.
So much of what we worry about never happens. Worry does nothing to
better the outcome of a situation or change the course of action. The
distress that accompanies worry may do more harm than the actual thing
which we worry.
Some of us are living way below par of what God desires for us. God
understands our struggles with worry, and He does not condemn us. Jesus
tells us not to worry about tomorrow and live one day at a time.
"Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:34 NIV)
We are not promised tomorrow. It is important to make the most of every
day God gives us. Worry is a waste of valuable time -- precious
moments, sunny days, and productive hours -- that we will never get
back.
Excessive worry may be a sign that we are moving away from our
dependence on God. Prayer and Bible study help quiet our minds and
diminish our fears. A daily walk with Jesus is essential in helping to
minimize worry. Trust Jesus, for He is trustworthy.
"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You." (Psalm 56:3 NIV)
God makes provision for our future. He walks alongside us, hand in hand,
as we make our journey ahead. We are in capable hands. He promises to
be with us always, and to strengthen and sustain us during times of
adversity.
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never
leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
(Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV)
Prayer
Father, many of us are plagued by worry and fear. Replace worry with
joy and peace. Replace fear with faith and love. Help meet the needs
of families who have college debt and financial concerns. Stretch forth
your healing hand to senior citizens and those with health concerns.
Bring Godly relationships into the lives of singles. Provide guidance to
teenagers and parents alike. In Jesus name. Amen.
Susan Ferguson
Jackson, Mississippi
Article Source:
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