Matthew 6:25-34 Do Not Be Anxious

Anxiety makes me uneasy and apprehensive. My family notices immediately that something is wrong with me. I am not fun loving to be around. I give these looks, pace back and forth, and make these growling sounds when I am anxious. My peace of mind flees when I give way to anxiety. My ability to love others is also suppressed when anxiety grabs my heart.

Anxiety is fueled by my worry about what may happen today or tomorrow. When my mind dwells on the uncertainty of life or the possibility of trouble, I am worrying. Worry is driven by fear - fear of what may be. Fear is driven by unbelief. When fear is in high gear, faith takes a back seat and hope jumps out the window.

Anxiety is only a symptom of something deeper. It is like the engine light on the dashboard that tells us that something is wrong. The light itself is not the problem. My anxiety is a signal that something is wrong with me - with my faith. At the core of my anxiety there is worry driven by fear.

Anxiety is a natural response to uncertainty and the possibility of trouble. But just because it is a natural response it does not mean that I am to surrender to it. Jesus tells me: "Do not be anxious." I am called to fight it! Faith, hope, and love must prevail over fear, worry, and anxiety. I must believe the promises of God for my life and sustenance. He will provide for me what I need even in the midst of a recession; even if it becomes a depression.

Lord, help my unbelief that drives me to worry and suffer of anxiety. Fuel my faith to believe your promises for life and daily sustenance. Don't abandon me in my darkest moments, but shine your light of hope upon me so I may enjoy peace of mind and show love to those around me.