In light of the economic chaos and unemployment that continue to pervade our country and world – in light of our personal distress, discomfort and worry, I thought it only appropriate to remind us all of what the Scriptures say about worry – since so many of us are on “high alert” these days. To do so, I’m going to quote Oswald Chambers’ devotional for today, as I believe it shoots straight to the heart of the matter of worry and personal stress:
My Utmost for His Highest – “Look Again and Think” by Oswald Chambers
“Do not worry about your life . . .” — Matthew 6:25
A warning which needs to be repeated is that “the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches,” and the lust for other things, will choke out the life of God in us (Matthew 13:22). We are never free from the recurring waves of this invasion. If the frontline of attack is not about clothes and food, it may be about money or the lack of money; or friends or lack of friends; or the line may be drawn over difficult circumstances. It is one steady invasion, and these things will come in like a flood, unless we allow the Spirit of God to raise up the banner against it.
“I say to you, do not worry about your life . . . .” Our Lord says to be careful only about one thing-our relationship to Him. But our common sense shouts loudly and says, “That is absurd, I must consider how I am going to live, and I must consider what I am going to eat and drink.” Jesus says you must not. Beware of allowing yourself to think that He says this while not understanding your circumstances. Jesus Christ knows our circumstances better than we do, and He says we must not think about these things to the point where they become the primary concern of our life. Whenever there are competing concerns in your life, be sure you always put your relationship to God first.
“Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:34). How much trouble has begun to threaten you today? What kind of mean little demons have been looking into your life and saying, “What are your plans for next month— or next summer?” Jesus tells us not to worry about any of these things. Look again and think. Keep your mind on the “much more” of your heavenly Father (Matthew 6:30).
It’s my prayer that all of us would focus upon that which is most important (our relationship with God) to gain inner strength and peace for the trials at hand.
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