Freedom from Worry

 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34 (New King James)

What is worry?

The dictionary defines worry as a "thing that causes anxiety or disturbs tranquillity, a disturbed state of mind, to be anxious or ill at ease". Worry is a series of negative thoughts - worry about someone who is ill or travelling, about your job, family, about children being out at night, someone being late home, exams, interviews, the list is endless. The problem with worry is that it is not just a few thoughts that come and then you move on to something else, worry is persistent, you feel that you cannot stop and it invades your whole being, possibly even preventing you from sleeping properly at night.

Worry is a huge problem in our society, people worry about any and everything. We all do it from time to time, but did you know that it is estimated that about 94% of the things we worry about do not come to pass.

The Lord commands us "Do not worry", it is a waste of time and energy; all it does is open the door for the enemy. But we cannot help ourselves and often we do not know how to stop.

Why does God not want us to worry?

Firstly, it is bad for us physically and emotionally, and it can have such an impact on our bodies it affects our immune system and makes us ill. It affects our emotions and leads to negative thoughts and behaviour.

Secondly and most importantly, if we worry, we are not trusting God. But God is so good to us, not only do we have His word and promises, he made us in such as way that if we do as He says, worrying thoughts cannot get into our minds and take hold of us.

Paul wrote that God will block the evil thoughts (Philippians 4:6-8). These are not necessarily thoughts regarding sin, but are also negative thoughts regarding ourselves and situations. If we constantly listen to our own self talk about how bad we are at this or that, that we cannot do anything, how awful things are, how we will we ever succeed and live the life He died to give us?

Ways to overcome worry

• Remember that God is in control, trust Him and give up your fear and worry to Him. “Cast your care upon Him” (1 Peter 5:7) but be careful not to take them back!
• Focus on the positive see Philippians 4:6-8 "Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things".
• Read the scriptures, for example Psalm 91 contains many promises of protection and deliverance, as does Psalm 18 especially v 16-19 and v 50. Psalm 139 shows just how much God loves us, He knew us and had a plan for us before we were conceived (v15-16), He thinks about us more times than there are grains of sand on the earth (v17-18), why worry with that kind of love around us?
• Ask for Gods peace (John 14:27) and replace the negative worry tape recording in your head with words of Gods love, peace, deliverance and worship. You will soon find there is no room for worry.

 Remember

Remember this very important fact. You are a child of God (John 1:12) you are the Kings Kid. Earthly parents will do anything they can to protect their children from harm. How much more will our Father God in Heaven watch out for us? Read Matthew 7:9-10 - Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you being evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

And finally - If God is for us who can be against us? (Romans 8:31). There really is no need to worry.

If you have a problem, our Freedom Ministries team is available to pray with you and for you. Please contact us on 01902 763366