Day 69 - Do Not Worry About Your Life

Matt 6: 25-34 & Matt 10: 17-20

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear...Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?”

We live in worrying times. But hasn't it always been the same? What a huge challenge this is. Some good news is that worry and anxiety can be controlled. For example, simple, practical steps are available to everyone: exercises to manage the mind, relaxation techniques, cognitive therapy (CBT) and mindfulness.

Another great source of healing and comfort is being outside in nature. There is a famous Latin phrase “solvitur ambulando” which translates to “it is solved by walking.” Many people do find a lot of truth in this. So, today, I invite you to join me in taking our cares and concerns outdoors to go for a mindful wander at this special time of exquisite beauty in nature when so many trees and shrubs are in blossom.

Don't forget to take a drink with you. As we go along we can pray trusting that the One who has the answers walks with us and is listening. Perhaps stop somewhere peaceful and become aware of and immersed in your surroundings. Engage your 5 senses: what can you see, hear, smell, touch and taste (now would be a good time to savour the drink you brought with you). Don't rush this moment.

Then slowly move on to reflect on how much we have as Christians. We are loved and held by our Heavenly Father:

• Believe in a lifeline that is always available 24/7. God is with us and we can find comfort and hope. It's good to know we can pray anytime and anywhere.

• We are in relationship with Jesus who has promised to be with us and will never leave us.

• Can “unlearn” behaviour and thought patterns and never too old to make a new start. We can learn to see things differently with the help of the Holy Spirit: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is ...” (Ro 12: 2).

Whatever comes our way faith can change us from “worriers” to “believers”, making us into those who trust and who have confidence in a great Saviour. Peter reminds us to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5: 7). It is good to know that whatever the problem Jesus is there with us. Being able to live for today with peace in our hearts is part of the redeeming work of our Lord. So, can we live for today and not worry about tomorrow? With God all things are possible.

“The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil 4: 5-7).

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for reminding us that we can “cast all our anxiety” onto you, because you care for us. We pray that you would take our burden of worry and all that we are concerned about this today as we lay it at the foot of the cross. Help us to know the peace that transcends all understanding. We lift our hearts with thanksgiving for your love, mercy and kindness as we raise our eyes to you, place our hands in your hand and step out with courage with you beside us. Amen.

Ruth Leeming