How do you feel about New Year?s resolutions? For years I thought the concept was silly, but I?ve grown to appreciate it. Resolutions are especially important when it comes to the spiritual life. Looking back at the past year, most of us would probably admit that we could have done a better job in the ?following Jesus? category. But, instead of feeling discouraged, I recommend that we embrace the idea of the fresh start that arrives on January 1st. Furthermore, I propose that we target one of the most physically and spiritually damaging practices known to man…
WORRY!
You Have Limited Control
It’s no secret that I have wasted years worrying about all kinds of issues. I have spoken from coast to coast and written numerous books on my personal struggle with worry. It is a battle that I fought unsuccessfully for years until I discovered the secret. In order to break free from the worry trap, I must first acknowledge my weakness. In other words, I must accept the fact that there are many things in life that I cannot control. Although this doesn’t come easy for the typical worrier (because worrying is generally a control issue), it is an important first step. On the flip side, there are some things that I can control. When I speak about worry, I always give the following advice – if there’s something you can do about your problem, do it! God expects us to use our limited ability to do what we can.
God Has Total Control
Once we do what we can and admit that we have limited control over our lives, we need to recognize that someone has total control. Even though it may not feel like it at times, God is one hundred percent in control of my life, your life and everything that happens in the Universe. Nothing happens without His permission. And, while we can’t say that He causes or wills everything (such as evil), everything that happens (good or bad) is permitted by God. This is an important point and you must accept it if you wish to find peace. You might be powerless over certain things, but God is not. He is always in control. If you lose sight of that fact, you will soon be consumed by stress.
He Wants To Help You
If God was willing to become man and live among us (John 1:14), doesn’t it make sense that He cares about the problems we face each day? Unfortunately, we often live our lives as if that is not the case. We are told several times in the Bible that Jesus had pity on various individuals. This isn’t just flowery rhetoric. It is an example of just how much He cares about you. If you’re worried about your job, your health, your marriage or even finding a parking spot in a crowded lot, Jesus cares and wants to help. Because He respects your free will, however, He will not force His way into your life. You must give Him permission to help!
“Behold I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20)
Ask And You Shall Receive
By now, I’m sure you figured out the next step. Turn to the Lord and ask for help with all of your problems, including your lack of trust. We’re often afraid to tell Him that we don’t trust Him. Take it from me – He already knows. In addition to the fact that He can read our thoughts, we express our distrust every time we worry. Therefore, don’t be afraid to ask Jesus to help your lack of trust.
Give Up Worrying In 2019!
I don’t care how many times you have tried in the past, make a resolution to give up worrying in 2019. With the help of Jesus Christ, it is totally possible. If you’re on the West Coast, I invite you to attend my Give Up Worrying In The New Year retreat on Jan 25-27, 2019 at the Mary and Joseph Retreat Center in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Click on the following banner for more information.
Feel free to email me if I can help in any way. Because I am anxious by nature, I understand what you’re going through. The Lord has helped me and He can help you. Now is the time to make the decision to turn to Him.
Let’s make 2019 the year that you finally break free from worry!
