June 21 - Break the Cycle of Worry

Read Philippians 4:4-8

Context: This is near the end of the book. Paul has told the Philippians to place their confidence in God, not in the flesh, and to press on toward the goal Jesus has created for us.

Text:
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (NIV)

taken from www.biblegateway.com

When you are caring for someone who is very close to you, a relative or a friend, it is easy to get caught up in worry. Your brain starts on a 'what if' cycle that escalates until you can only see a future full of chaos and grief for yourself and the person you are comforting. What if she dies? What if they lose the house? What if he's permanently disabled?

These are all important things to consider and plan for as possible outcomes, but try to take things one day at a time...and help the person you are caring for do this too. If you can focus on the positive actions you can take now to avoid such a future, that is great. You must replace worry with positive thoughts, or it will continue to be an obsession. Look for ways you can make a difference in someones life today, with a meal or a hug, and if needed help them plan for the future in a positive way. When you see your friend or relative jumping into the whirlpool of worry, find a distraction that will either help him/her forget or will focus on the actions and events he or she can control. And above all else, pray and pass those worries on to Jesus!