Worry is a word that we use all the time; it’s part of our everyday language. Sometimes, we use the word to describe something that is close to us – ‘I’m worried if I will pass that exam’ or ‘I am worried about whether someone is still talking to me, after what I said!’
These kinds of worries are normal, they show we care about different situations around us. Generally, they are things we can do something about. If we are worrying about exams, we can put a study plan in place, talk to a teacher or create a study group with others. Although we may still be concerned about the exam on the day, if we are well prepared, it makes a big difference.
However, sometimes we may find ourselves getting worried and anxious over situations that are not ours to hold onto. I was in the situation yesterday where I found myself mulling over different things that are happening.
Do any of these things resonate with you? Worrying or anxious about:
- Lockdown 3.0 in the UK.
- When you will be able to go back to school/work.
- When you’ll see family or friends again.
- Situations in other countries.
- Brexit robbing you of peace.
Don’t worry, this is not going to turn into a political blog! I’m just highlighting that there are some big situations happening in the world at the moment, the majority of which are outside of our control.
We can all play our part in managing these situations, such as social distancing or staying at home; but ultimately, we have no control over the decisions that are being made for us by the government. How then do we manage the emotions that naturally come with difficult situations?
In the Psalms in the Bible, we are shown what to do in such circumstances. We need to cry out to God!
‘How long Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts? And day after day have sorrow in my heart?’
The Bible – Psalm chapter 13 verses 1-2 (New International Version)
King David, in the Old Testament, frequently poured out his heart to God in his distress. For example, when he was being pursued by King Saul, who was trying to kill him. Or when he faced many enemies, or when he was ill. David experienced many circumstances that were beyond his control. David didn’t hide his feelings from God and pretend everything was ok, He called out to him.
You don’t need to come up with your own words. God has given us his living Word to pray to Him. So, call out using the words ‘How long Lord, How long?’
As David cried out, he kept trusting
‘I’ve thrown myself headlong into your arms …’
The Bible – Psalm chapter 13 verse 5 (The Message Translation)
Like a small child throwing themselves into their parent’s arms, trusting that they will catch them.
‘I’m singing at the top of my lungs’
The Bible – Psalm chapter 13 verse 5 (The Message Translation)
David kept praising God.
One of the great heroes of the faith Corrie Ten Boom said this:
‘Worrying is carrying tomorrow’s load with today’s strength – carrying two days at once. It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time. Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength.’
(Source: https://www.goodreads.com; accessed 19 January 2021)
Worrying about things outside of our control can empty us all strength to be able to face the situations we are facing today. Therefore:
‘Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.’
The Bible – 1 Peter chapter 5 verse 7 (New Living Translation)
