This Is What You Should Focus on Instead of Your Worries
What Jesus can teach you about nonreactive living when worry runs high
How have your stress levels been this year?
Are you constantly worried about what you see on the news or social media?
Will the mere mention of “2020” elevate your heart rate and cause stress in the coming years?
Rounding out this year, the twists and turns keep coming. The reality of how little is in your control hits close to home.
If you live in the United States — like me — you’ve just lived through a tumultuous election season. The trauma this election caused is yet to be determined. But both sides — liberal and conservative — are upset by different facets of the election.
The only certain thing is that the future is uncertain.
Needless to say, everyone is searching for comfort right now. Nobody wants more lies, fluff, or fantasy. The teachings of Jesus offer a powerful antidote to the anxiety and worry you feel.
Instead of focusing on your worries about tomorrow, focus on today.
The power of nonreactive living
You’ve probably heard the saying that 85 percent of the things you worry about never happen. But a recent study found that the number is closer to 91 percent.
And what about the other 9 percent of worries that do come true? Participants in the study reported the outcome was better than they expected about a third of the time.
Looking at those numbers makes Jesus’ words even more powerful.
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” (Matthew 6:34, NLT)
Instead of focusing on your worries about the future, focus on what’s right in front of you today.
This verse of scripture from the New Testament is part of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. It’s a series of teachings about living in a way that relies on God’s provision.
Faith in God’s provision for your life means you don’t live in reactionary mode. You aren’t constantly pulled…
