Last week, a friend and I saw the movie “San Andreas.” The story follows Dwayne Johnson – aka “The Rock” – as he battles record-setting earthquakes in California to rescue his family. It was 114 minutes of edge-of-your-seat, hold-your-breath action. When it was over, I was exhausted and you could see my fingerprints on Beth’s forearm.
Unfortunately, I don’t always leave the anxiety in the movie theater. I often allow tension and worry to crop up in real life. I’m not saying I worry about trivial matters. No, my anxiety is usually over circumstances that are tough. Serious. Painful, even.
But as a believer, I’ve been invited to give my worry and anxiety to the One who has the power to handle any situation.
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Today’s mug reminds us of God’s invitation. It belongs to an “old” friend of mine. We lived across the street from each other in Casper, Wyoming and spent lots of time together as young moms. Now Cami is a teacher in Colorado. Working with kids, she probably needs the mug’s reminder constantly.
In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:25-34), Jesus repeatedly (5x in just 9 verses) told us not to worry about our needs and the problems of this life. But why shouldn’t we worry? There are many circumstances in this life that give us good reason to worry.
But God is bigger than all these circumstances. Our heavenly Father knows all our needs, all our problems, and every little issue of our lives. He not only knows these things, He also cares about them (1 Peter 5:7) and has the power to act. If the Creator of the universe says, “I’ve got this!” then we really have no need to worry.
4 Ways to End Worry
But sometimes we still do. So, how can we “keep calm and carry on?” Here are 4 things we can remember to end worry:
- Remember what’s really important – Sometimes we worry about small things. In fact, often, it’s the inconsequential things that cause us the most anxiety. Jesus encouraged us to remember what’s most important (Matthew 6:25).
- Remember God values you – God meets the needs of every sparrow. They are His creation and He cares about them. But Jesus said we are much more valuable to God than the birds. How much more will He care for us?! (Matthew 6:26)
- Remember how big God is – God cares so much about the wildflowers He dresses them in grand style. If He tends to small details like that, how much more is He able to care for us (Matthew 6:28-30)?
- Remember your priorities and purpose – Jesus said our purpose in life is to seek God and His Kingdom. We were created to serve Him and bring Him glory. When we put that first and only, God takes care of all the rest (Matthew 6:33).
What helps you to “keep calm and carry on?”
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