Don't Worry-Be Happy

I don't know about you, but every day I wake up, it seems like there is something to worry about. This morning news broadcasts and radio programs were jammed with information about a pending winter weather watch/ice storm headed our way today at 3pm. Reporters were predicting that we may be without power for several days. In between the weather report, was a listing of more failed banks and a concern that our money was not safe any longer. Add on a little news about terrorism, and you have a perfect start to perfect storm of worry for the day. Okay, you may not be concerned about all of that stuff, but I bet you have test scores, relationships, or being maxed out with too many commitments, that are tugging on your worry muscles.

At the root of anxious thought is a small trickle that runs through our mind that can eventually lead to a deep crevice if we don't stop the drip. Here is what I try to remind myself in the midst of it all:

1. God controls it all. The One who spoke everything into existence holds me in His hand. He is sovereign over all the details of my life, those around me, and certainly national and world politics and economy.

2. I need to rest in Him. Isaiah 26:3 reminds me that if I set my mind on Him, and keep it on Him, He will bring me peace. Why? When I think about my Creator's character, it reassures me that He can handle anything I have happening right now...and more.

3. Pray and meditate on his word. Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:6-7, and verse 8, as well as II Timothy 1:7 remind me that the fundamentals of my faith are rooted in good prayer time and good scripture memory. I need it daily just like I need my bowl of oatmeal. They both stick to my ribs and put meat on the bones.

I don't know what you are worried about today. I am sure you have some serious challenges. I pray that you will cast your anxious thoughts into His lap and trust Him to work on your behalf. Don't worry, be happy that you have a God who can handle everything.