Six Reasons Why
You Shouldn't Worry About Tomorrow
November 24, 2003
I've got a close friend who is a chronic worrier.
I asked him once if he ever noticed that most of the things he
worries about never happen. He smiled and said, "Yeah, I
noticed. And it just goes to prove that worrying works."
The truth is worrying never accomplished a thing
except ruining the present. Worry does nothing more than pull
tomorrow's clouds over today's sunshine while it wears away our
faith, robs us of sleep, and occasionally produces an ulcer or
heart attack. Of course, recognizing the harmful effects of
worrying doesn't make us stop. But the words of Jesus might.
In Matthew 6:26-33, Jesus gave us six reasons for
trusting in God rather than worrying. His words make as much
sense today as they did back then.
First, since God gave us the greater gift of life,
he will also give us the lesser gift of food and clothing (v.
28). To put that illustration in contemporary terms--if a father
gives a child a car, won't he also give him the keys? Of course!
So as long as you have breath don't sweat the small stuff like
food and clothing.
Second, the God who provides for the birds will
provide for us. After all, we are of greater value than any bird
(v. 26). To help you remember this, the next time you see a
bird--let its presence remind you of how much God loves you and
promises to meet your needs.
Third, worry doesn't change a thing (v. 27). Like
a man in a rocking chair, worry consumes energy, but gets us
nowhere.
Fourth, worry ignores the faithfulness of God (vv.
28-30). The same God who so wonderfully clothes the flowers of
the field is responsible to care for us. Every blossoming flower
is a reminder of God's faithfulness.
Fifth, we are God's children (vv. 31-33). He will never treat us
like orphans who need to fend for themselves.
Finally, when we worry about tomorrow we miss out on today. Any
problem we face can be handled, with God's help, one day at a
time.
The next time you're under pressure, pray for the
grace you need to depend on God. Above are six good reasons to
keep you from worrying.
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