Stop Worrying and Start Living

Worry is our thinking process turned toxic.

In the Old English the word meant to strangle or to turn, which fits perfectly, because that’s what worry does. It turns our thoughts into anxiety-ridden conflicts, and strangles our ability to think clearly.

In today’s language in means to feel anxious, distressed, or troubled. Worry is ruminating, turning over and over again in our minds, what might be, which in turn causes a person to be apprehensive and fear the future’s uncertainties.

Worry bring to its adherents – depressions, substance abuse, insomnia, headaches, and digestive problems, not to mention ulcers. So worry is toxic is not only to our thoughts (mental), but also to our bodies (physical).

So harmful is worry that Jesus gives us this piece of advice.

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:31-34)

What is the antidote for worry? What will bring peace to a worry plagued mind? Prayer.

The Bible says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

In order to stop the toxicity that worry brings to our minds and bodies we need to trust Jesus with our lives and His peace to reign.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)