Saturday, September 22, 2012

Living Without Anxiety by Martin Wiles

Series: Living Life To The Fullest

Every resume’ sent and application filed was a dead end. “We’re sorry. We’ve reviewed your application, but your skills don’t match anything we have available.” Or, “Thanks for your interest, but we’ve decided to move in another direction.”

Job hunting in a declining economy isn’t pleasurable. The relentless searching is taxing and provides fertile ground for worry, anxiety, depression and emotional burnout to breed. States of mind that tarnish my soul, poison those around me and obstruct satisfied living.

Paul was no stranger to anxiety-producing situations. From beatings to jail to being shipwrecked and misunderstood by his peers, he faced tough conditions. Yet he discovered a way to avoid anxiety and live an emotionally full life in the process. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything (Philippians 4:6 NLT). Paul was only echoing what Jesus earlier taught: So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life (Matthew 6:34 NLT).

Knowing we shouldn’t worry is one thing; not actually doing it is another. Paul learned contentment regardless of his situation, and we can too. Constant states of worry and anxiety are physically, spiritually and emotionally draining. They divide our mind and keep us from focusing on-and enjoying, the rich life God has planned for us. And when we’re miserable, it makes those around us dismal too.

I finally found employment-and at an enjoyable position. I couldn’t force an opening, but God made one where there was supposedly not one. When worry’s shadow begins creeping over you, commit the state of affairs to God through prayer and let him have control. Then determine whether there’s anything you can do to help ease the pain of the situation. 

Prayer: Lord, we place our worries in Your hands believing You control every situation in our life.

3 comments:

  1. A hearty amen to what you've shared here and so glad you found a job. He truly does make a way when there seems like there isn't one.

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  2. Thanks! I needed this today. Stress was weighing heavy on my heart.

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  3. What a wonderful testimony of God's faithfulness. I am glad you found a job and you are right when you say let him have control. He knows what we need so much more than we do.

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