DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
by Linda Sommerville
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear? For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Matthew 6:31-33
Worry is like sitting in a rocking chair – it gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere. Even though I know this is true, I still too often find myself gnawing on my worry like a dog gnawing on a bone.
The Greek word used most often in the New Testament for worry carries the meaning of being divided – having a divided mind, a divided heart. Being literally pulled in two different directions.
This is not God’s design for his people. God wants us to be whole, undivided. He wants us to go to sleep at night knowing that He is holding the world in His hands, so we don’t have to.
Next time you find yourself worrying, try one of they “worry repellants” instead:
- Remember the last 10 ways that God has blessed you or provided for you – write them on post-its and put on the bathroom mirror or the refrigerator (someplace you will see them frequently through the day) to remind you just how faithful God is.
- Hold your hands with palms open, and surrender your worry to God – then pray for someone else you know who is struggling with something (to take your mind off your own worries and focus on caring for someone else).
- Memorize Philippians 4:6-9 and say it out loud every time your mind begins to wander back to those worries.
These are just a few ideas. What are some ideas that help you?
Please share your ideas by sending a reply to this email.
