If you’re thinking you would be happy if it weren’t for this problem or that problem, then worry is the problem! Jesus wants you to have peace and joy in the midst of the problems.
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” —John 16:33
Tribulation means pressure or trouble.
Jesus made two statements in this verse: 1) As long as you’re in this world, you will have tribulation (pressure, trouble). 2) You can choose to be of good cheer.
You don’t have to be worried or afraid. Trouble and happiness can coexist. It’s your choice.
Jesus said to be of good cheer, so you can choose to be of good cheer or He wouldn’t have told you to. You can choose to walk in peace and joy. To win over worry, you must be proactive.
In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul tells us what to do about worry. He begins addressing the problem by saying, “Be anxious for nothing….”
The Amplified Bible says, “Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything….” Anything includes everything. That means there’s nothing you should worry about! It may seem impossible, but the truth is, the Lord wants you to be as free from worry as you are from sin.
“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” —Psalm 46:1-2
Some people think they’re showing how much they care by worrying. They don’t realize how much worry dominates their thoughts, lives and prayers. They think worrying is doing something about the problem. Worrying and fretting is acting as if you don’t have a God or He can’t be counted on for much, and it literally takes things out of His hands.
Instead of worrying:
“… in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” —Philippians 4:7
Pray over situations that are robbing you of peace and joy, place them in God’s hands and refuse to worry!
You may have to pray again and re-enforce the fact that you are not going to worry about it anymore. You’ve given it to God by faith, and He’s going to take care of it. Then continue to thank God for the answer. You’ll have to fight for peace. But don’t quit! God’s Word says you can do it, so you can.
The result is:
“…and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 4:7
Supernatural peace comes by refusing to worry about anything and by praying about everything. Replace worry with peace. You can make that trade today!
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