We live in a world plagued with constant worry. I believe there’s really nothing we can’t manage to worry about nowadays. From insignificant things to things far beyond our control. I can guarantee no one feels any better after a second of worrying. But sadly, in the average life span, we worry away roughly six and a half years. That’s one full month of worrying every year.

Not only does worry steal years of our life, it weakens us as effective servants of God. When we’re feeling anxieties press in all around us, the Devil takes advantage. He knows we’re most vulnerable when our minds are in turmoil. It’s easy to tempt someone who’s confused and hurt. Satan offers us a way out of the unrest, when really it’s just a well-set trap.

We’re weak because worry makes us lose focus on our Savior. When we’re worried, we’re dwelling on troubling things and hope seems lost. You can’t focus on things that make you worry while saying you trust in Jesus. Christ is our hope. He asks that we give all our cares to Him and tells us not to worry or be afraid. In Him, we have strength.

Worry also negatively affects how other people see us. When we are weighed down with anxiety, it shows, therefore making Christianity look dull, tainted, and unappealing. Especially to non-Christians, the people we are called to share the gospel with. If you’re placing your complete trust in God, it should be visible in the way you look and act. You shouldn’t let worry hold dominion over your life, because ultimately it can have an effect on your eternity.

We are called to be light bearers, not doubters. Our saved status should show on our faces. worry snatches away that feeling of finding salvation, because we’re not thinking about the price Jesus paid to wipe away our sins. We’re doubting our worth and think we still have a debt to pay.

Do not focus on what you did or didn’t do. Your past should not define your future and your yesterday should not turn today into a regret. We feel discouraged while brooding over prior mistakes, but this dims the present truth of our salvation. We’ve been forgiven–it’s important to accept that every day. Doubt is the bushel hiding our light. If you only look at the bad, that’s all you and everyone else will see. We must fight worry with worship.

Worry makes you think thoughts like “what if”. What if I’m not enough? What if my parents get a divorce? What if my friends are talking behind my back? What if no one loves me? What if I didn’t do that bad thing? These are all valid uncertainties, but they shouldn’t overrun your life. Pray and give these cares to God. Then take part in active praise.

Worship makes you think thoughts like “I know”. I know my Savior lives. I know He holds my tomorrow. I know He has a future planned for me, and He uses all things for good. I know Jesus is coming again. These are thoughts that are free of doubt, free of worry. Jesus is the one person you can count on in this world. Even the stars sing praises to Him. But He intends for you to shine brighter as a Child of the King. Don’t let worry take away your glow.

Fight worry with worship. When anxiety has a hold on you, take time to redirect your focus and lift up some praises. Know that God hears every word and that He’s smiling down at you. You’re going to be okay.

 

Adeline Minett,  Hylandale Seventh-Day Adventist Church