Transformational Tip
Anxiety and worry are enemies. Anxiety comes from the word “Fretting.” The definition of fretting is to eat away or corrode the surface of something. It makes sense doesn’t it? Think of the negative effects of worry;
- It can damage your health
- It can cause the object of your worry to consume your thoughts
- It can reduce your productivity
- It can negatively affect the way you treat others
- It distorts your view of reality
- And most importantly, it reduces your ability to trust in God
Worry and concern can easily be confused with each other; but here’s the difference. Worry immobilizes, but concern moves you to action. Obviously Jesus knew about the ill effects of worry, that’s why He repeatedly tells us through scripture not to worry.
Today, take notice of when you worry or are anxious. Look at the list above. Remind yourself of God’s sovereignty, then ask what God is teaching or telling you. Click here to anonymously share with the stepping stone community the ill effects of worrying that you are experiencing. Help others know and understand they are not alone.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You worn down and consumed by worry. I know that You see this Lord as a form of disbelief in You; forgive me Father. I thank You Father for the Holy Scripture that tells me over and over again that God will provide for all my needs. I want to believe You deeply. Help me Lord to see the difference between healthy concern and futile worry. Help me first seek Your Kingdom and Your righteousness, fill my thoughts with Your desires and to serve You and obey You in everything I do. I pray this with authority in the name of Jesus, and all God’s people said, – AMEN!
“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 important than food, and the body more important than clothes?”
Matthew 6:25
Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
Psalm 127:1,2
Comment (1)
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My brother died two months ago. Then my father was diagnosed with Dementia and strokes but because he's an alcoholic/drug addict he will not get help. Then I was laid off my job ALL in one month. God faithfully provided a great new job for me yet because of all the sadness and emotions I have not believed that I was ready. I have been feeling very overwhelmed and therefore worried and anxious. I have tried to stand on my faith and trust the Lord but have found it so hard. I spent most of the night last night dreaming and thinking about this job and all I will have to learn and worrying. I prayed this morning for the Lord to help me to really believe that he will be with me and to be able to act like it. To believe deeply. I decided to read this devotion and it of course was written for me. I thank the Lord for being near and speaking to me. I know he will continue to encourage me and I will be fine.