Since most of the things I worry about never happen, does that mean that worrying about them works to keep them from coming about? I sure hope not. Because if that’s the case, then it would follow that worrying about something could be the reason it did happen. And that’s a scary thought!
So then, what are we to do with worry?
The way I see it, we have one of two choices:
- Hang on to it and worry ourselves sick over things we can’t control.
- Trade it for God’s promised inner peace and trust Him.
Here’s How the Trade Works:
Sit down with your favorite cup of coffee or tea, a piece of paper and something to write with. Do all your worrying at once, making a list as you go. Now open your Bible to Philippians Chapter 4 verse 6. “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
- Hold your list in your hand and pray. Go over all your worries, one-by-one, telling God all about it, and ask Him to help you with them. But don’t stop there.
- Say thank you. Thank Him that He hears you, cares for you and is for you, not against you. Thank Him for the good things—there’s always something to be thankful for.
- Read verse 7: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Place your list on top of the page, and close your Bible with the list inside.
Each time you start to worry about something on the list, say out loud, “Nope. Not going there. I traded that worry in for God’s peace of mind,” and let not your heart be troubled.
PS: Save your lists in a private place, and from time-to-time review them. You’ll be amazed at all God has done—and without you worrying about it!
