January 11: Help! I Am A Worrier.

Help! I Am A Worrier.

Author: Sharon Campbell-Danvers, Shepherdess, Educator

Theme: Contentment in Christ. Finding peace and joy in God regardless of circumstances

Peace of mind is a valuable commodity that cannot have a price tag placed on it. If worrying was a product, I would be rich.  Peace of mind is precious and closely aligned with our mental health and well-being. Truth be told, so many things seek to distract us from what is truly important and what gives us true peace. This is a struggle for me. I need a piece of peace! A big slice. Whopper version, supersized.

Women are confronted with many issues that impact their peace of mind. The woman with the issue of blood was in a deep place for twelve years (Mark 5:25-34). Mary and Martha watched their brother die and wept (John 11:1-44). The woman at the well was searching for deeper meaning in her life without even knowing it until she came in contact with Jesus (John 4:1-26). Hannah was troubled at home and could find no peace until she had her victory, Samuel (1 Samuel 1:1-20). Leah was not loved and bore several sons, with each name identifying her struggles and her deep desire to find peace (Genesis 29:31-35). I seem to do all the worrying for my family!

As a child, I struggled with my emotions, and sometimes when I remember my past experiences, they trouble my thoughts and emotions. Truth be told, I am at a better place because I have learned the power of forgiveness. I still need some help at times. Thank You, Jesus.

When facing challenges, it is sometimes difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel or even to consider that there is a light. Jesus has promised that He will never leave nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). In fact, He declared, “Lo, I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). You can find hope and peace in knowing that God is our refuge and strength, a present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). Our contentment does not rest in our circumstances but in the God we trust. We can weather the storm because we know who holds nature in His hands (Mark 4:39-41). Why do I still worry?

We can have peace and assurance of blessings and healing because we know the Great Physician (Jeremiah 8:22) and the Balm in Gilead (Jeremiah 46:11). We are not alone because we have a friend in Jesus (John 15:15). We are not broke and empty-pocketed because our Father is rich in houses and land (Psalm 50:10-12). This assurance ought to give us hope, peace, joy, and contentment since we know who our Father is and what He will do for His children. 

I know, but I still struggle at times. Therefore, for this year, I am intentional about aligning what I know with what I profess. Oh, what peace I often forfeit when I worry so much! Sometimes worrying gets the better of me, and I struggle for a while, but then Jesus steps in, and I am reminded that Satan is seeking after our minds, and it is important for me to be sober and vigilant. 

I rise above worry today, and each day I will take a dose of tonic from God's word to keep me on track.

Prayer

Dear God,

I acknowledge that I do worry a lot! Thank You for reminding us that despite our circumstances and our trials, we can find peace and joy in Your promises. Help us to have faith during the process and hold to Your unchanging hands. May we find the peace which passeth all understanding in our journey (Philippians 4:7). Thank You for Your love and for being there with and for us. Amen.

Photographer: Shaqueena Shanuel Danvers, Pastor's Kid, Northern Caribbean University student