Why Do You Worry? – Read Matt. 6:25-33
During a recent time of devotion, I came to a familiar passage in Matthew 6:25-33. As I read the text, Jesus’ short but piercing question jumped out at me: “Why do you worry…?” The question gripped my heart and sent me on a quest to find a reasonable answer.
The word translated worry in the NKJV comes from the Greek word merimnao, meaning “to be anxious about; to have care or take thought, through the idea of distraction.” The word suggests that a preoccupation with life’s circumstances and problems will split our attention, divide our focus, and derail our faith.
Picture a beautiful garden infiltrated by weeds. While the soil contains everything for the plants to grow and be healthy, the unattended weeds begin to take root and consume the nourishment and hydration intended to feed the plants. That is how it is with worry. God has given us everything that pertains to life and godliness, but when the cares of this life take root in our hearts, they begin to eat away at the faith and strength designed to nourish our souls and keep us rooted in the plan, peace, and purpose of God. But God’s Word provides some practical truths that help us fight against this enemy that tries to erode our faith.
First, we must remember that worry is unwarranted. If unemployed birds have confidence in the source of their care, we, the crown of God’s creation, must believe that He will provide everything we need. Second, we must realize that worry is unproductive. No matter how much we agonize, it will never change the situation that troubles us. Anxiety only serves to deplete us of the precious energy needed to find God’s solution to the problem. Finally, we must recognize that worry is uncharacteristic. Our worry is a gross misrepresentation of God. When we fret about the issues in our lives, we are unwittingly telling the world that our heavenly Father is not aware of, concerned with, nor able to handle what we are facing.
The fact is that there will always be opportunities to succumb to anxiety, stress, and pressure, but it is what we do with the strain that matters most. When adversity comes and threatens our peace, we must actively employ the benefits that God’s Word provides for us and be diligent to throw every concern into the capable hands of God, having every confidence that He will hold us up (Ps. 55:22). In the face of turmoil and strain, we must hear the gentle voice of the Savior asking, “Why do you worry?” and know that there is no reasonable answer.
Copyright © 2021, D’Ann V. Johnson
This was such a blessing to read this Monday morning. I often find myself in the throws of worry. Sometimes unbeknownst to me, just that feeling of dread. This was a great reminder of my Father’s Love. Arise Shine Dear Brave One❣️
This helped and encouraged me so much this morning! “In the face of turmoil and strain, we must hear the gentle voice of the Savior asking, “Why do you worry?” and know that there is no reasonable answer.” This will come to mind every time I begin to give light to worry.