“You’re such a worrier,” she casually said over the phone after I completely poured out my heart per my usual vulnerable fashion. “You’re right,” I quickly resounded. But my thoughts held a unique response, something quite quite the opposite. Sure, I used to be a natural worrier, but did this friend, that I trusted and highly admired, must point that out to me?
Yes! Yes, she did. That’s because my ever-evolving worry was starting to regulate me, and dare I say, had even change into a comforting (and sinful) habit. My friend was just being honest by calling me out, holding me accountable, and reminding me that worry is just not something God wants me to hold, much less tightly hold on to. Sweet friends really are the very best (Proverbs 27:9), aren’t they?
So, my sweet friend, is it okay that I call you that? I do know we likely don’t know each other, but in the event you are a believer, then we’re friends! That said, you obviously landed here for a reason. Maybe you’re also an enormous worrier. Well, here I’m calling you out. Maybe it’s essential hear that today. Now, before your thoughts grow in frustration as mine did when my friend’s honesty rubbed me the fallacious way (at first), let me make clear why it’s necessary that we listen to our worry. Worry, in and of itself, isn’t sinful. However, when it consumes our lives and continually takes over our thoughts, we give the enemy a foothold and are putting our faith on the road.
Truth be told, all of us worry in some unspecified time in the future in our lives, especially when faced with unexpected seasons or difficult situations. But it’s all in how we respond that makes the difference! We can either trust God and lay out our concerns, fears, and anxious heart at His feet or we will bend towards those hasty feelings, allowing them to change into an unhealthy habit, and quite possibly making a sinful pattern.
As we start the season of Lent and usher on this beautiful and meaningful season, let’s set our hearts and minds on welcoming peace and embracing the richness of life that God has prolonged to us. Let’s let go of worry! Not sure easy methods to do this? No worries, friend. I’ve got you! Below are five easy steps you possibly can take every day to calm your mind, release the fear, and experience joy.
Photo Credit: Danijela Froki/Unsplash
