Worrying is a choice.
Worry is a prison that we voluntarily commit our hearts and minds to the bondage of sin and all of its ugly related consequences.
One of the worst feelings in the world is worry. It eats at us. It distracts us.
Worrying is bad for us physically and can literally make us ill. Worry impacts us mentally as it brings feelings of depression, despair and hopelessness. Worry can be contagious so as a result, we can adversely impact others through our own worry.
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?
Matthew 6:27
Spiritually, as we worry we send several messages to our creator such as:
- I don’t trust you.
- I trust myself more than I trust you.
- I have forgotten your promises.
- I have forgotten what you have done for me.
- I choose to disregard your commands.
Worrying is a choice. We know it is bad, so why do we do it? Notice that at the beginning of each of the aforementioned messages to our creator is “I”. Worry, like most sins is something that puts “self” before God.
Transformation
Transformation from worry is a result of a relationship with Jesus. It comes from trust and obedience. There will always be a temptation to worry, but as our faith strengthens, our worry instead turns into hope, praise, worship and rescue no matter what the Earthly result.
The opposite of worry looks something like this:
- Putting our trust in the only one who can truly save us.
- Denial of self.
- Reading God’s word and clinging to His promises.
- Meditating in prayer reflecting on all that he has done, starting with the mercy and grace through the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- Obedience to his commands. Instead of worry: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 25:33)
Let the joy return!
Turning our worry into praise and worship brings joy! It pulls us out of the fire, out of the darkness, out of the prison, and helps enable us to live in the way God intended us to live.
What are you worrying about today? God is ready to listen. Tell him what he already knows then ask him for forgiveness. Embrace His love and let the light in!