"What If" Two words that "reek havoc" in most lives everyday. Worrying about what may happen. What if I get sick? What if I lose my job? What if he/she leaves me? What if I have an accident? What if someone attacks me?
Don't get me wrong. We are not asked to ignore planning or to be careless. We are simply told not to worry about what may happen. See Matthew 6:34
Review the following information closely. Make a copy. Keep it close to you and read it when you seem to be worrying to much. Gods' Wisdom is Priceless!
The following list shows the various things that make up an average person's anxiety. Anxious individuals focus on:
1 - 50% of events that will never happen happen
2 - 25% of occurrences of the past that cannot be changed
3 - 10% about unconfirmed criticism by others
4 - 10% about health (much of it apprehensive)
5 - 5% about Real Problems that Will Be faced
Did you get it? 95% of worry and anxiety is about things we should not be generally worrying about. Only 5%....Only 5%....Only 5% are Real Problems.
What if the 95% of wasted energy was focused on the 5% of Real Problems?
So how can you live one day at a time and minimize worry? The answer can once again be found in His Word. And it's free. An effective antidote for worry is Contentment! See Phil. 4:11,12
Did you know that contentment is not an inheritable attitude but an acquired characteristic. Paul says that "I have learned" (vs 12).
In this day and age, in which we face so many problems, there is a need to develop a sense of contentment for what we presently have and not to worry about what might come tomorrow.
Till next time, remember you are in my prayers. Please keep me in yours.
Paul Sr.