Don’t Let Tomorrow Get You Down
“Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34
At various times in my life, I have struggled with episodes of things to worry about. I am sure many of you have had the same experiences as well, after all, it seems there is plenty in our world to be worried about.
What we hear or the news or read in the paper, problems from our own personal lives and fears of what may happen tomorrow can cause us to worry, but as Christians we need not fear the future for we know God has plans for us, no matter the circumstances or how we feel. Amid our worries and fears, we can choose to put our trust in God’s promises for us.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you: I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be dismayed. God does not want us to live in fear or be overcome with worry. In fact, we are told to be quite the opposite. God wants us to embrace the strength and peace He offers, in all aspects of our lives.
Concerns about finances, or relationships, or health, can be very overwhelming. But when it seems we have lost control, we know we have the One who can take control. We can trust Him with each new day.
God’s plans for us are greater than we can imagine, or even plan for ourselves. Psalm 33:11 says, “But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generation.” Although it is not as easy as it sounds, we do not have to be worried about the future because we know God is good and His plans are certain. However, this does not mean we should not prepare for the future. In Proverbs 6, Solomon tells us to, “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores it’s provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” – Provers 6:6-8. This is an example of how we, too, should be ready and prepared, when we can, for what lies ahead.
Worrying about the future can consume our thoughts and bring us unrest even when we are unable to control our situation.
“Who of you, by worrying, can add a single hour to your life?” – Luke 12:25.
Preparing for the future is a wise choice and can even reduce our concern, provided it does not distract us from God’s will. If we are using preparation in the place of trusting God, then our efforts can work against us. It is best to prepare harmoniously with God’s will.
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” – Romans 8:26
If we are struggling with worries about the future, we can always go to God in prayer. He is there for us and always ready to hear our prayers. In Philippians, Paul encourages us to present our request to God rather than worry.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
Whether we are worried about the future of the world, our country, our friends and family or ourselves we can bring these things to God. Our peace is not found in the outlook of things around us but rather in Christ alone.
My Prayer:
Gracious God, in You we find the answers that take away our worries. By trusting in You, our fears are removed and we have comfort knowing that through the Spirit, You Lord, are with us. Bless our families, friends and neighbors with Your love. Let us all learn to turn our worries over to You every day, trusting in Your love and the plans You have for us.
May the Peace of Christ be with you all.
Amen
Jim Kerner