Don't worry. Be happy.

Best text in the NT. I love to worry. I've turned anxiety into an art form. Truthfully, it doesn't really help a worrisome person to tell them not to worry. That only makes it worse. But, practicing the art of letting go, as suggested by this text, is something that, with time, can make all the difference. And it does take practice.

Recently I was speaking with a friend who was worrying because there were things in their life that were out of their control. And this person is very committed to controlling the things in their life. I told them to practice the art of not being in complete and utter control. I suggested they go home, do all the dishes, and then leave one fork in the sink. And then sit with the discomfort of knowing the dishes weren't all in their place. If they took the time to practice with the little things, the effort to sit uncomfortably with the bigger things would start to get easier.

For me, the practice includes reminding myself of Jesus' promise, that God would take care of the things we need. When I start to worry, I make a point to think back on the times I've worried in the past. Despite many unpleasant experiences, ultimately God did always see me through it. The older I get, and the more experiences I gain, the easier it becomes... Don't Worry. Be Happy.

Text:

He said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying. For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.