Worrying accomplishes nothing, yet it is so easy to fall into a pattern of worry and anxiety. So why do so many of us waste time worrying?
Isabel Poulin / BigStockPhoto.com
Control and Worry
How much do you worry about situations which you can control? Probably not much, if at all. The problem is that we often forget that what we truly control is limited to our own choices and actions. Rather than worrying about what may happen, give your thoughts a break and choose to wait and pray while you allow others to do what they will. You can still give your opinion, but make it brief and use your energy for something other than worrying. Then exercise the only real control you have by reacting thoughtfully.
And none of us is perfectly qualified. We get it wrong nearly every time we open our mouths. If you could find someone whose speech was perfectly true, you’d have a perfect person, in perfect control of life.
James 3:2 The Message Bible
Emotions and Worry
On a basic level, emotions get us to react to what is important. But, emotions also churn up the “what if?” mentality of worry, throwing us into a self-absorbed spiral that does nothing for solving problems. You have a choice between being mired in fear or being released into hope. Consciously making this choice is difficult for those who feel intense emotions, but trust me, it can be done. I’m not suggesting that if we just put on a happy face all will be right with the world, but if we choose to set aside pride, confusion and insecurity, we have a better chance at seeing possibilities instead of insurmountable road blocks.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philipians 4:6-7, NIV Bible
Planning and Worry
Some planning usually makes sense when difficult situations come up, but feeling confused while dwelling on too many variables indicates that you are trying to manipulate the future; and you can’t work with what does not exist. God may have an entirely different plan than you do, so avoid obsessing over what may or may not happen and let some things play out before you start examining options and planning.
God offers a full report on the gifts of life and salvation that he is giving us. We don’t have to rely on the world’s guesses and opinions.
1 Corinthians 2:13, The Message Bible
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34, NIV Bible
Words to Overcome Worry
In the book, When God Whispers Your Name
During the 40 days and nights that Satan tried to tempt Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11), Christ responded by saying out loud, “it is written…” followed by Bible scripture quotes from Deuteronomy. Romans 8:14 tells us that we share Christ’s inheritance: …those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. To fight the stranglehold of worry, follow Christ’s example and repeat Bible verses that will keep you centered, such as those referenced in Overcoming Anxiety at About.com Christianity, and the calming Bible verses listed on Inspiringcalm.com.
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1Peter 5:7, NIV Bible
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