“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” – Matthew 6:27
What do you worry about? Take a moment to reflect on the things that often occupy your thoughts and burden your heart. It’s natural for concerns and fears to arise in our lives, but as followers of Christ, we are invited to a different perspective—one that reassures us and reminds us why we don’t need to worry. Here are a few common sources of worry and some encouragement to counteract those worries.
- Finances: Money matters can often bring anxiety, but don’t forget that God is our provider. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:26: “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Trust in God’s provision and seek His wisdom in managing your resources.
- Health: Concerns about our physical well-being can consume our minds but remember that God is our healer. Psalm 103:3 declares, “He forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” Place your trust in the Great Physician, seeking His guidance, and surrendering your health into His capable hands.
- Relationships: Relationship struggles and conflicts can cause worry but we can rest in the fact that God is the restorer of relationships. Romans 12:18 encourages us, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Surrender your relationships to God, seeking His guidance, wisdom, and grace to navigate difficult situations.
- Future: The unknown future can be a significant source of worry but you can have peace because God holds your future in His hands. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Trust in His sovereignty, knowing that He has good plans in store for you.
Worry has a way of stealing our peace and distracting us from the truth of God’s faithfulness. But as we reflect on the areas that often cause us to worry, we can find comfort in knowing that God cares for every aspect of our lives. He is our provider, our healer, the restorer of relationships, and the author of our future.
Instead of allowing worry to consume us, let us cast our worries on Him. Let us trust in His promises, seek His guidance, and rely on His strength. Remember, worrying doesn’t change our circumstances, but trusting in God can transform our hearts and minds.