worrying
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. -- Matthew 6
I've always been a worrier. In fact the women on my mother's side of the family tend to be worrywarts... it may be a trait which I have unfortunately inherited.
Recently I've caught myself worrying more than usual about life circumstances, responsibilities I've taken on, or even things I'm afraid of happening. But reading this passage from Matthew reminds me that at its core, worrying is not simply thinking or brooding. Worrying demonstrates a simple lack of faith in God.
Placing complete trust in God, that His will will happen, even if it may not be exactly when or how I want, means that I give up any semblance of control over the future. Obviously it doesn't mean I stop working hard and just sit back passively. But worrying is not only impractical since it is not productive, but it is reflective of a disbelief that God is all-powerful. It also is self-centered, instead of placing God at the middle and striving to get there as well.
Ultimately I hope to stop worrying by looking towards God.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
-- Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Words & Music: Helen H. Lemmel
