Worrying. Anxiety. Something we all know we shouldn’t do, yet still do. But why?
Realistically, worry is what happens when we try to control the things we are unable to. We can’t control the weather, or our exam results, or our future and so we end up worrying about all these things. However the worrying we do, doesn’t change a thing. In fact, most of the things we worry about never even happen.
Understandably, it is hard living in uncertainty, and as humans we want to have as much control on our lives as possible. But, we have to remember that in a world full of uncertainty and ever changing moments, we serve and are loved by an unchanging and consistent God.
While there are so many apps and books that can give you advice about why you shouldn’t worry, Jesus gives us three (and even more) reasons that are just as good in Matthew 6:25-30.
Hopefully, my summary and understanding helps you to remember that God will meet all your needs, and that God has always got you.
1. It Is Unreasonable
If it will not last, don’t worry about it. Often times we spend time worrying about the things that we can change, and the things we can’t change.
Matthew 6:25 says, “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 than food, and the body more than clothes?”
God has always told us He will provide for our needs (see Philippians 4:19 if you don’t believe me), and so worrying about things that can or cannot change, is essentially useless and unreasonable.
2. It Is Unnatural
As a child, I’m sure you’ve been told that God knows the amount of hairs on your head. Don’t you think, that someone who loves you so much to know about you in so much detail holds you to a high regard? (See Matthew 10:31 if you again, don’t believe me).
Matthew 6:26 says, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
Of all the things God created only us, humans, worry. Worrying is unnatural. If we trust in Him, we should trust that God will provide, maybe not when we want, but when it is needed.
3. It Is Unhelpful
As I mentioned before, worrying doesn’t change anything. Matthew 6:27 says, “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
When we worry it doesn’t actually make any difference or bring you any closer to solving the situation itself. In fact, there is so much evidence out there to show us that worrying about things shortens your life.
We are often reminded that God knows the plans for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11, if you didn’t know), so essentially we’re sat here, stressing ourselves out about something that’s already worked out for your good.
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God knows our needs, even before we ask for them in prayer (Matthew 6:8, for your reference), and so we are able to pray in confidence. We should try to have the same confidence, that God will always provide your needs.
There is nothing wrong with planning ahead, or making contingency plans but remember, don’t allow the thought of the future to pre-occupy your mind. Live for Him in the present, and leave the future in God’s hands.
love,
S♡
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“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34.