When You Are Worried

Worry seems to be a fact of life, a foregone conclusion in life, and an acceptable component through life. Yet, for all the worrying we do, no good has ever come from it.  As a matter of fact, most will agree that worry discourages and fatigues us.

In the middle of teaching a solution to worry, a follower of Jesus named Paul, wrote this:

“Thank God for all he has done.”         Philippians 4:6

This one point will defeat worry instantly.  The moment you become aware that you are being controlled by worry…STOP…and either say out loud or write down 3 things you know God has done for you.

And it can be in the past.  Most of my faith has come by looking back and giving thanks to God for all he has brought me through.

This is one of the most helpful habits you can form.  The lyric of an old church song stated it well:  Count your blessings.  Name them one by one and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

What has God brought you through in life?  Even think about what you were worried about at this time last year (if you can even remember).  God brought you through.  Here you stand.  Thank Him for that.  Put it on your list.

Here’s what I know:  Gratitude and Worry CANNOT occupy the same space in your mind at the same time.

In the Old Testament, it was not unusual to have writers tell and re-tell the stories of God’s miracles and rescue through times past.  One example of this is found in Psalm 136:

“Give thanks to him who made the heavens so skillfully.
His faithful love endures forever.

Give thanks to him who placed the earth among the waters.
His faithful love endures forever.

Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights—
His faithful love endures forever.
the sun to rule the day,
His faithful love endures forever.
and the moon and stars to rule the night.
His faithful love endures forever.

He brought Israel out of Egypt.
His faithful love endures forever.
He acted with a strong hand and powerful arm.
His faithful love endures forever.
Give thanks to him who parted the Red Sea.
His faithful love endures forever.
He led Israel safely through,
His faithful love endures forever.
but he hurled Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea.
His faithful love endures forever.
Give thanks to him who led his people through the wilderness.
His faithful love endures forever.

Give thanks to him who struck down mighty kings.
His faithful love endures forever.
He remembered us in our weakness.
His faithful love endures forever.
He saved us from our enemies.
His faithful love endures forever.
He gives food to every living thing.
His faithful love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His faithful love endures forever.

Psalm 136

God’s past deeds remind me that He is present now. He loves me now.  He’s dependable now.  He will help me now. He’s with me now. 

And each time I thank Him, worry controls my life a little bit less!

Brad Johnson is Pastor of California Community Church, Agoura Hills, California

http://www.californiacommunitychurch.com