“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will also be given to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:32-34 (NIV)
Clutching my Bible, I walked into the waiting room at the local hospital. The doctor ordered some tests because my blood work showed some high numbers regarding specific areas of my health. He wanted me to get an ultrasound to understand better what was going on. Although it wouldn't be too painful, I still worried. A hand was holding me as I waited with great anticipation for my appointment. Soon enough, my name was called, and I walked back to get my ultrasound.
The technician poked and prodded. Soon after I got home, I got the results, which was good news. I was happy, but there was also something about the results that I had a question about. I asked my doctor at my next doctor's appointment. I was informed that I more than likely had an autoimmune disorder and that this would be forever.
After an emotional day of hearing this hard news and knowing that my life would have to change dramatically, I remembered God's words. However, it is easier said than done because I'm always worried. I'm constantly worrying about what the future may hold. In this passage, Jesus commands us not to worry because tomorrow has enough trouble. In my case, that was undoubtedly true. I didn't get the results I thought I was going to get. Although a bigger concern was ruled out, the other concern blindsided me and made me question the future of my life expectancy.
Then, I quickly discovered I needed to worry about a different type of health concern. This was bad health news, and I had to worry about whether our new insurance would cover the procedure. Because I have had financial issues in the past, as well as health concerns that forced me to make major changes to my lifestyle, I had every reason to worry, and I made the most of that opportunity. I worried so much I had to take a day off from work to lower my anxiety levels.
Worry is like sitting in a rocking chair; you move, but it never gets you anywhere. It's the same thing when we consume ourselves with anxiety. We worry about the future, which only brings pain and an inability to focus on today. God never promises us good health all the days of our lives. He never promised a full, long life. He never promised that there wouldn't be trouble; he just promised we would never be alone.
In this passage, he also warns that trouble will come soon enough. But we have hope.
God is not done with you if you've gotten up this morning. Even if you receive bad news from the doctor, your career is done, or a child stops following his faith, we know that we have the promise that God is still in control. He's on the throne and is in control.
Although it's easier said than done, especially for me, you must keep in mind that worrying, although it feels productive, really does little to help you enjoy the present day.
All we are promised is today. No one has the promise of tomorrow. Although we would all like long, fruitful lives, the reality is that God decides when we are done. My only job is to fulfill the calling God has for today. Tomorrow, we'll have enough trouble not to worry about today.
Father, help me to know that you are in control. Ultimately, no matter how much I worry that bad news may still come, remind me that you are a God of miracles, even in the worst situations. Help me to trust in you, pray for miracles, and expect that even in problematic circumstances, I know I'm not alone.
Photo Credit: ©tommaso79
Michelle S. Lazurek is a multi-genre award-winning author, speaker, pastor's wife, and mother. She is a literary agent for Wordwise Media Services and a certified writing coach. Her new children’s book Hall of Faith encourages kids to understand God can be trusted. When not working, she enjoys sipping a Starbucks latte, collecting 80s memorabilia, and spending time with her family and her crazy dog. For more info, please visit her website www.michellelazurek.
Related Resource: Jesus Calling - Stories of Faith
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