Today we are living in uncertain times which can and has created worry. Who could have predicted that we would be practicing social distancing? I don’t think that term was even used in our common language, now it’s a daily reminder.
Spring break plans changed for many. Employment has changed. Schooling does not look the same. So, many plans have been altered. We have found ourselves at home with the world changing by the minute. That is when the worry can set in. So, let’s combat the worry together.
Worry defined by Webster is strangle or choke. So when one worries, they are essentially choking or strangling themselves. This is not a good thing. There are much better things we can do with our time. What is the opposite of worry? That is what we are going to focus on.
Joy – Experience delight
Now don’t worry about a thing, my daughter. I will do what is necessary, for everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woman. Ruth 3:11
Certainty – Being settled
“Don’t worry about this Philistine,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight him!” 1 Samuel 17:32
Comfort – Cheer
Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. Proverbs 12:25
Reassurance – Eliminate worry
But you are obsessed with whether the godless will be judged. Don’t worry, judgment and justice will be upheld. Job 36:17
Contentment – Showing satisfaction
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Matthew 6:25
The shelves are bare in the stores, but he will provide. He cares more about you than the sparrows and the flowers of the field. He is watching and providing your needs.
Peace – Harmony
Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matthew 6:27
Worrying adds nothing positive to your life. This is from WebMD: Chronic worrying can affect your daily life so much that it may interfere with your appetite, lifestyle habits, relationships, sleep, and job performance. Many people who worry excessively are so anxiety-ridden that they seek relief in harmful lifestyle habits such as overeating, cigarette smoking, or using alcohol and drugs. Let’s instead enjoy the peace from God that surpasses all understanding. Keep your focus on him.
Confidence – Faith that one will act rightly
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34
Every day the news is changing, more confirmed cases and rules enforcing isolation. Have the confidence knowing that it will end. People are surviving and getting healthy. The more we stay home, the quicker we will be back together, face-to-face.