“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. ” Matthew 6:34
Written from a quote and recorded by several artists, it became a popular tune. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” also reminds of Jesus discourse in Matthew 6:25-34. In it He gives us a real formula for a happy life.
I confess; I am a worrier. I worry too much, often about things in the past, often about things over which I have no control and often over things that probably won’t even happen. Jesus wants us to live a day at a time and trust Him. I need to apply these words of Jesus to my life and write them on my heart and so do we all.
Here are Jesus’ words in seven bite size morsels, a list for us to chew on about why we should not worry. Remembering that planning (with the Lord’s direction and guidance), is not worry:
6:25 – The same God who created life in you can be trusted with the details of your life.
6:26 – Worrying about the future hampers your efforts for today.
6:27 – Worrying is more harmful than helpful.
6:28-30 – God does not ignore those who depend on Him.
6:31,32 – Worrying shows a lack of faith in and understanding of God.
6:33 – Worrying keeps us from real challenges God wants us to pursue.
6:34 – Living one day at a time keeps us from being consumed with worry.
It can be hard to comprehend the Biblical concepts of joy and happiness because our culture has trivialized and sentimentalized these states of being. Society tells us real joy is impossible if we are not always happy with our relationships and possessions.
Paul had something about not worrying as well. (Philippians 4:6-7). “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
By John Grant
Used by Permission
John Grant is a former Florida State Senator and is a practicing attorney
Further Reading
• Overwhelmed by Negative Feelings?
• Why Worry Yourself Sick? – by Muriel Larson