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| photo by Lou Bueno |
“Will all your worries
add a single moment to your life?”
Matthew 6:27
Many of us worry out of concern for ourselves or those we love. We don’t want to lose them physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. But does our worry bring about better relationships, stronger commitment to Jesus, or longer lives? No! In fact, worry is a spiritual heart problem that robs us of life!
Worry can raise our blood pressure, upset our stomachs, and produces enough tension to trigger migraine headaches. Worry can transform us into proverbial nags or distract us to the point of neglecting our responsibilities. Worry wastes precious time, steals peace of mind, obstructs joy, and hinders faith.
But how do we give it up? In my last post we learned the antidote for worry is prayer and thanks. But like physical heart problems, worry sometimes requires further treatment. In Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus gives us several doses of good medicine:
“Look at the birds of the air.” (6:26)
“See the flowers of the field?” (6:28)
“Seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness.” (6:33)
Taking the time to watch the birds, to notice the flowers, and to consciously put God first fills our minds with assurances of God’s love. When we channel our thoughts on these blessings, we don’t have time for worry! It can no longer rob us of life!
©2013 Pamela D. Williams
