Stewing without Doing // Philippians 4:6

Yesterday I wrote a bit about worry and how it robs us of precious energy for something that may or may not happen tomorrow. Jesus taught that we aren’t to worry about tomorrow because tomorrow will have enough worry on its own. God’s desire is for us to have faith sufficient for the day and trust your future to God.

I once heard worry likened to sitting in rocking chair. You can move, but you won’t get anywhere. Motion without movement is typical when we worry. The stewing without doing gobbles up the energy we need to act in faith and trust. The reality is that when we worry, there is something we can do: pray. Consider what we read in Philippians 4:6, “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns” (MSG).

You can develop a valuable prayer practice when you worry. Take the things that cause you angst and turn it into a prayer request by focusing on the nature of God that runs in direct contradiction to your worry. For example, if you are worried about not having enough money, pray and give thanks that God is your provider. If you feel like you are under attack, turn to God your protector.

Worry is motion without movement. When you’re stewing, prayer is best thing you can do! You will find a peace flow over you like never before; in fact, it defies understanding in the best way possible. I hope you find this helpful today.