Nov 18 Devotion: Putting Worry in Perspective

8).  Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely. whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  9).  Those things, which ye have learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and thee God of peace shall be with you.

                                 PHILIPPIANS 4:8-9

Worry is a common experience, and in many cases, anxiety is constant and overwhelming. But rather than address the issue, a lot of people have just learned to live with it.

We treat extreme anxiety like a benign emotion when in fact it can do harm, clouding our mind, dividing our focus, and robbing us of peace. Drifting through life exhausted by stress and worry isn’t God’s plan for us. Instead, we should take anxious thoughts captive (2 CORINTHIANS 10:5) and replace them with healthier ones.

The best way to address anxious thoughts is to combat them with something positive. We do this by weaving Scripture into our life. God has something to say about everything that concerns us. (PHILIPPIANS 4:13) assures us we “can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [us].” If we fear the paycheck won’t cover this month’s expenses, (MATTHEW 6: 25-34), reminds us not to be anxious, for our heavenly Father knows that we need all these things.

Jesus said worry adds nothing to our life.  In fact, we actually waste time and energy dwelling on concerns instead of affirming our trust in God. When worry creeps up on us, let’s choose to set our mind on Him instead.

-IBC