Fear Not

​I have a friend who says it helps to worry about things.  Her proof is based on simple logic; she says, “The things I worry about never happen!”
 
So go ahead and worry about tomorrow! Whatever you’re worried about probably won’t come to pass. However, there is a down side to this approach—worrying about tomorrow will rob you of joy today.
 
Jesus identified generalized anxiety as a spiritual issue that diminishes life. In Matthew chapter six, Jesus offers a pathway to help us overcome the crippling effects of anxiety. He doesn’t suggest deep breathing exercises, aroma–therapy, cold showers, or yoga; although I believe all of these disciplines have great value and will increase endorphins. Jesus simply tells us to shift our focus.
 
Rather than focus on the things we’re worried about, Jesus tells us to shift our focus in three ways: 

​LOOK UP:  The next time you find yourself worried about something that may or may not happen, take a moment and look up; notice the birds flying overhead. Jesus reminds us that God cares for the sparrows. Not one of them will fall to the ground without God noticing. As you observe the birds flittering around, remind yourself of the red letters Jesus spoke, “Are you not much more valuable than they?” If God takes care of the sparrows, God will certainly take care of you.   
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​​LOOK OUT:  If your anxiety meter goes up because you doubt if you’re good enough or worried about how you look, shift your focus and look out; notice how beautifully God has adorned the earth. Check out some flowers in a meadow or watch the sunset over the horizon. Walk by a creek and notice the sun reflecting off the moss-covered rocks. Pick a flower, marvel at it’s color and texture.  And then hear the red letters of Jesus spoken over you, “See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin . . . If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will God not much more clothe you?”  In other words, Jesus thinks you are more spectacular than the natural wonders of the world.

​LOOK WITHIN:  Jesus knows that anxiety and stress are part of the human experience. He’s aware of our need to feel in control. He knows we’re prone to dwell on the troubles of tomorrow. He also knows, “each day has enough trouble of its own.” That’s why Jesus tells us to look within and “seek first the kingdom of God and God’s righteousness.” God knows what we need before we ask. When the troubles of tomorrow overshadow the challenges of today it will drain our strength, weaken our faith and rob our joy.  God’s kingdom dwells within us. When we seek God’s kingdom, God will provide what we need to meet the challenges of the day.
 
What are you stressing about today? Maybe it’s time to shift your focus.
 
Before you get all worked up, look up!  
 
Before you get stressed out, look out!
 
Before you do anything, look within and seek God’s kingdom!