Do you have a problem with worry? Maybe you feel emotionally drained at times–worrying about everything from your family to the economy to the condition of the world.
I didn’t have to learn how to worry. It just came naturally as a by-product of an overactive imagination, a curious mind, and a relentless memory. Marriage and a family only brought more responsibility. More things to worry about. I agree with my friend who defines worry with the acronym: W.O.R.R.Y: Worry-Only-Robs-Rest-from-You. It’s true. Worry is exhausting.
I’m inspired by Paul’s letter to some persecuted Christians in the early church. They were always in danger of getting killed, and therefore had lots to worry about. “Don’t worry about anything,” he encouraged them. “Instead, pray about everything” (Philippians 4:6 NLT).
I was struck by the word instead. Paul didn’t just tell them to stop worrying. He said, instead of worrying, we should pray. He encourages us to redirect all that worrisome energy into prayer. What if we make anxiety work for us instead of against us?
This reminds me of a little like a trick I learned back in high school when I took karate in between my sports seasons. I was taught to use the enemy’s energy against him. A violent attack could be redirected to incapacitate my attacker.
The Bible reminds us that we are in a spiritual battle. Let’s reflect on these verses:
“Don’t worry about anything. Instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6, 7 NLT).
When you are tempted to worry this week, try redirecting all that energy into prayer!
marilynn chadwick 
March 9th, 2020 at 10:15 am
God Bless you for all you do. My life, My Marriage, and My Community will never remain the same after reading your Book ‘Woman of Valor’. Every time I pick up your book to read it seems like I am meeting God at the altar, I hear the Holy Spirit speaking to my spirit expressly. I have received instructions on what to do ranging from little steps like reigniting my relationship with someone to my true call in life. You are in my prayers in this time of transition for you, your husband, family, and community.
Ruth Haruna
Nigeria
March 9th, 2020 at 9:24 pm
Hello Ruth, Thanks for your kind and encouraging words. I am delighted to know you found the “Woman of Valor” meaningful. I would be curious to know who introduced you to the book–and whether you are still in Nigeria? I am sure you are a “world changer” in your own community. Thanks so much for your prayers during our transition.
Blessings,
Marilynn