Worry Steals my Joy

It has been said, "Worry is like a rocking chair; it will give you something to do, but it won't get you anywhere." Or have you heard the quote, "I have moments absolutely free from worry - These brief respites are called panic attacks?" HA! Funny, because we can relate.

I am studying a book entitled, Calm my Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. It is an excellent read. Click Here to purchase your copy. Her book shares how women often worry about fundamental issues. Then Linda gives practical tips to overcome.

Her book includes a survey sharing that most women are anxious about many things. However, lack of money is the most common. Ladies worry about how they will pay the mortgage, how to send their kids to a good college, or how they can afford another car.

Relationships and marriage are also at the top of the worry list - from finding their prince charming to staying in their marriage long-term. Women are anxious over their children, no matter the age of the kiddos. Or they have anxiety about not being able to have a child. Repeated thoughts: Will I ever have a baby or be a good mom? These can make a female worn and weary!

Perhaps worry is a part of your life. Maybe you are concerned about your health. Maybe, you are uptight because of your job. I get it!

But friend, today I want to share a few tips I am learning from the book, Calm my Anxious Heart.

1. Understand that worry is deceptive. Anxiety is not going to change your situation. It might even make things worse. It will steal your joy, time, and perhaps your health. Instead, acknowledge the issue. Examine if it is a genuine threat, then take the necessary steps to make a change. If it is something you cannot do anything about, then . . .

2. Trust the sovereignty of our Lord. He has your best interest in mind. Nothing touches you without first going through the Lord's hands. Bad things will happen in this world, but the Lord loves you deeply and has your best interest in mind. He has already proven His love on Calvary. Therefore, trust Him. Linda Dillow says, "Yield to God's sovereignty and thank Him that He is the Blessed Controller of your problems."

3. Choose to trust God with your tomorrow as you live in today. You cannot think about the worries in today and tomorrow without spiraling downward. God repeatedly tells us not to worry about the future. Matthew 6:34 reads, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." Because Christ is already in our tomorrow, He knows the future. He is in the future. Therefore, live for today without being paralyzed by the 'what ifs' of the unknowns. Not to say you do not need to plan. You must organize your next steps, but do not worry about it.

4. Be intentional in caring for your mental stability. Make the mental choice to Be Happy! I have a coffee mug with a picture of a bumble bee and the wording Bee Happy! Often, it brings me a smile. Healthy routines help me 'bee happy." - Such as getting rest, eating healthy meals, fresh air, sunshine, and exercise. Spending time with the Lord prepares my attitude. I also like to reward myself. I do so with a fun activity or a little pampering. Be intentional with your self-care. I believe it will impact your thought patterns.

Sweet sister, I don't know what is causing you anxiety today. However, I challenge you. It is time to stop worrying and start moving because "Worry is like a rocking chair; it will give you something to do, but it won't get you anywhere."