My wife and I know the kind of challenges that can cause people to worry. We had cause to worry when our son was going through a rebellious youth, when Jennifer had breast cancer and every time I am between consulting projects and there is no revenue coming in to my business. But, worry has never been as effective as prayer.

Worrying is feeling uneasy or overly concerned about a situation or problem. Excessive worrying, causes your mind to go into overdrive as you constantly focus on “what might happen.” According to the WebMD website, “Chronic worrying can affect your daily life so much that it may interfere with your appetite, lifestyle habits, relationships, sleep, and job performance. Many people who worry excessively are so anxiety-ridden that they seek relief in harmful lifestyle habits such as overeating, cigarette smoking, or using alcohol and drugs ^[1]“How Worry Affects Your Body,” https://www.webmd.com

Worrying leads to stress. Stress has been linked to several health problems. People who suffer from high levels of stress can be more prone to cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, weight problems and even certain cancers. All of these medical conditions can compromise the quality of life and potentially shorten your lifespan.

When Jesus told his disciples he was about to go away, he said the Father was leaving them and all of us with the Holy Spirit who would teach us everything Jesus taught the disciples. He ended by saying, “Peace 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 (John 14:27).”

Regarding worry, Jesus said, worry cannot add a single hour to your life (Matthew 6:29). He assures us that God the Father is taking care of everything we need. Jesus said, “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? 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 (Matthew 6:25-26)?”

When you worry, you are saying I don’t believe God’s promise to take care of me. Or, you are doubting His capability.

1. What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about this directive?

2. What are you going to do about it?

3. Who are you going to tell?