Worry-Free Living

Worry and fear can be all-consuming.  I know.  I’ve been consumed at times.  They can cleverly weave themselves into every thought and make even a “good” day feel gloomy and grey.   

What are you worried about?  Paying your bills? The health of someone you love?  How your children are turning out?  Will you keep your job?  Retirement?  Stop for a second and put words to your fears.  “I’m worried about___________.”  

Worry and fear can lay siege to our thoughts, grab our peace, hurl it into a prison cell and slam and lock the door, leaving us wringing our hands wondering what in the world we’re going to do.

 

Can you imagine a day without worry or fear?  Just one day where faith in Jesus would replace the fear you struggle with:  your finances, job security, health, marriage, children...  It’s hard to take that mental journey, isn’t it?   Stop and think how different your day would be if you weren’t lugging around those heavy worries.  The weight lifts, your stomach stops churning, your mind isn’t entangled with those troubled thoughts.

Jesus knows our nature as fearful worriers.  He knows how life-destroying fear is.  And because he cares so deeply for us, the Gospel contains numerous imperatives to “fear not”, “take heart”, and “have courage”.  Jesus knew it was something we’d need to hear time and time and time again. 

How in the world do we ditch the worry and fear? 

Fortunately,  Jesus didn’t just tell us the answer. Because we are of utmost importance to our God, our Father sent us an Advocate!  Yes, the Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of everything Jesus said!  But wait, that's not all! Then... Jesus gave us His peace.  Wow!  He has provided everything we need to live a life free of worry and fear.  It's ours for the receiving! 

How do we receive His peace?  We choose to believe His word is true, and embrace the One who was sent to continually point us toward a sweet, trusting relationship with our perfect Jesus.

Please read this! It's so awesome!

^“ 26But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, 
will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 
 27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. 
I do not give to you as the world gives. 
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” 
 Matthew 14:26,27 (NIV)

I pray that the Lord will help our hearts be free of worry and fear! 

Love and blessings, 

Mary