We are living in times when so much is going on around us that it could cause people to worry, be anxious, and be fearful. However, as followers of Jesus, should we be different from the people of the world who do not follow Him? People can experience many different things likely to cause worry. These might be personal things impacting their lives as well as unfolding things the Bible said predicted happen or come to pass. So should we be surprised when Jesus and Paul foretold that these things would happen? Matthew 24:4-13 refers. Also 2 Timothy 3:1-5 which speaks of people being uncontrolled, lovers of money, ungodly and turning from Him.  

Those who belong to God should experience something different than fear because God has not given us a spirit of fear. 2 Timothy 1:7 says (NIV) “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline”. The words of Jesus should cut through the noise of fear and worry, bringing peace and confidence to our lives. His promises and assurances bring real and lasting peace even amid the storm to those who believe them. The Bible is not a book of concepts and facts, but living promises relevant for all of us today. Jesus teaches about worry in Matthew 6:25-34. He mentions the words ‘Do Not Worry’ three times….ending by instructing us to seek first His Kingdom and all our other needs will be met. There are eight key lessons we can learn from Matthew 6 that bring us hope:

• God knows about the natural everyday things that His people need (26&28)
• Understanding your worth and value (26)
• Know that worry cannot provide anything that will increase your life (27)
• What’s coming out of your mouth is what you’re entertaining in your heart (31)
• Your Heavenly Father knows already what you need (32)
• God says we are not to live like unsaved people (32)
• We are to seek first the kingdom
• Treat every day as its own package (34)

 The alternative for worry is trust. Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV states “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths”.

In troubled times believers can develop a deeper trust relationship with God. We know Him as our Father (Matthew 6:9-13) and we know Him as our Shepherd (Psalm 23). But what are we to do with our cares, worries and anxieties? Again, scripture is our book of life….. 1 Peter 5:7-8 (NIV) states “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you”. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”.

Let us desire to choose trust instead of worry – it's God's plan and it’s much better for us!!