How often do you live like an unbeliever? What dominates your thoughts these days? In a conversation with friends, we were sharing together how our minds respond at that initial moment when we come face-to-face with the slightest hint of any concern. Morphing immediately into a Goliath, "it" is now directing every aspect of our lives. Even using all our effort, it's impossible to turn our attention to accomplish any needed task as we are living in a frantic state. I can't deny some real concerns were voiced, but often our responses aren't rational. We get caught up in emotions, and we spiral down paths that escalate, assume and speculate until we have convinced ourselves of every worst-case scenario possible. It's very rare we anticipate less. Our natural bent seems to be worry, fear and panic.
Jesus, teaching His disciples warns about worry. He identifies and associates those who get caught up with the affairs of life as unbelievers, who basically don't know better. Christ followers can become just like people all over the world who allow troubles to control thoughts and actions. Worry may be one of the most common experiences among those who call themselves Christians. It seems to be a regular part of all of our lives. It dictates behaviour and has greater influence than we desire.
Worry is not only wearisome, but physically we know that it is the root cause of many health issues. The enemy uses it as a weapon to unravel our belief and get us so focused on "what ifs" that we forget "Who is"! Fighting so hard to live in the safe zone, we step away from the faith zone. How we constantly need to remind ourselves that God is in control and that absolutely nothing that touches our lives goes unseen.
As I think of some recent prayer requests shared with me, it appears the devil is working overtime in the lives of believers. Marriages are struggling. Health concerns are many. Family relationships are severing. Employment is tentative. Biblical truth is being compromised. Exhausted, many are giving in to the climate of the culture just to avoid an explosion from another land mine.
Day to day pressures constantly invite us to incessantly worry about tomorrow. We must refuse the invitation. Persistent worry is not a characteristic of a believer. Our hearts need to be effectually and functionally coming under the reign of God's sovereign rule. It is the only way we will experience His rest. Instead of worry distracting you, pray it will direct you to the Lord and His promises and then rest knowing your Father already knows your needs.
"So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom." Luke 12:32
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