A few weeks ago I wrote a Musing about worry. There was much response to that Musing so I thought that I’d follow up with a situation that proves that there is a lot of work to be done in this area of my life.
There was a recent work issue related to the end of the year. It dawned on me while I was on vacation in October. Since that time I researched, pondered, asked around and, of course, stressed. Numerous people assured me that the situation would work out (including my husband, my boss, several co-workers, and even family). However, I could not (or would not) let it go. During the last week of the year I spun myself up so tight that I made myself physically sick (no detail necessary). I prayed and prayed but would not let it go. And guess what–it worked out fine! I need to find that fine line between being detail-oriented and prepared versus worrying.
I would like to point out that even though I lacked the trust that it would work out, my prayers were answered. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
One of the Bible verses I quoted in my previous musing was the following:
“Do not be anxious [worried] about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:6-7 NIV
It is no accident that the verse that follows teaches us what to do when we are worried or actually any time our mind goes to places it shouldn’t.
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Phil 4:8 NIV
Start by memorizing this verse. Then when your mind goes to places it shouldn’t you can start through the list, something like this:
1. Is what I am worried about/thinking about true?
2. Is what I am worried about/thinking about noble or honorable?
3. Is what I am worried about/thinking about right or just?
4. Is what I am worried about pure?
5. Lovely?
6. Admirable/commendable?
7. Excellent?
8. Praiseworthy?
Many times we can’t even get past “true” before we realize our mind should not be dwelling on this particular situation!
At the very least going through this verse will distract us and likely we will feel more peace about the situation because we are focused on God’s word.
Lord, we know that You are in control but sometimes it is difficult to let go of certain situations in our life. Help us to trust You in all situations and give us the peace that passes all understanding. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.