Presented by Julie Busteed
Do you tend to worry about things in the future that have not even happened yet? I know it’s easy for me to fall into that mindset. But Jesus clearly tells us not to go there!
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34).
This is the final verse in a section where Jesus tells us not to be anxious about our lives—not about what we will eat or what we will wear. And what does worrying accomplish? It doesn’t add anything to our lives. In fact, anxiety is harmful. Left unchecked, it creates stress that affects us physically, mentally and emotionally.
Now, I’m not talking about the nervousness you might feel before a job interview or a presentation—though we certainly can pray for peace in those moments. I’m talking about chronic anxiety, the kind that takes a toll on your body and mind.
Jesus points us to the lilies of the field:
And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? (Matthew 6:28-30 NLT)
Why do you and I have so little faith! We serve a great and awesome God, and we can bring any and everything to him in prayer. The Apostle Peter encourages us to cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you (I Peter 5:7).
Worrying is not only useless but is also evidence of a lack of faith in God. When you feel that anxious thought creep into your thinking, replace it right away with truth from Scripture or with a worship song. Replace it with God’s truth. Know that he cares for you and knows your needs; you are worth more to him than anything else.