READING TIME: 1-2 MINUTES
November 14, 2019
What are some principles to combat worry?
A. Key passages (2 Kings 6:15-17; Psalm 127:2; Proverbs 12:25; Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:7)
B. Legitimate anxiety and concern (1 Corinthians 7:32-34; 12:25; 2 Corinthians 11:28; Philippians 2:20, 28)
C. Matthew 6:25-34
1. Anxiety reveals wrong priorities (Matthew 6:25)
2. Anxiety lacks perspective (Matthew 6:26)
3. Anxiety is impractical (Matthew 6:27)
4. Anxiety exhibits limited faith in God’s power (Matthew 6:28-30)
5. Anxiety manifests materialism (Matthew 6:31-32)
6. Countering anxiety (Matthew 6:33)
7. Anxiety is a never-ending habit (Matthew 6:34)
D. Three Causes for Worry
1. Fear – the dreaded outcome may become reality, fear of failure, humiliation and being publicly embarrassed (public speaking, etc.)
2. Pride – personal pride in being self-sufficient, the pride of achievement, pride of appearance, the pride of material gain
3. Lack of control – a concern that God might not be in control and working “all things for the good.”
E. How to Deal with Anxiety
1. Rationally identify and confess fear/pride/disbelief involved
2. Identify the worst possible scenario and allow God to make it happen
3. Put forth best effort to prevent the feared scenario from occurring
4. Pray in gratitude for whatever happens
5. Move on – get up and keep living life
F. Additional Suggestions
1. Cultivate the awareness of God’s presence in you
2. Talk through your problems
3. Meditate on God’s Word daily
4. Condition yourself to relax
5. Listen to soothing music
G. Important points to remember
1. Worry happens when we assume responsibility God never intended us to have
2. 95% of the things we worry about never happen
3. Corrie ten Boom: “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows; it empties today of its strength.”
