“When Jesus tells his followers not to worry, he interrupts the continuous loop of what-ifs that tend to dominate our lives. To feel worry and anxiety are normal parts of being human; however, to feed worry and anxiety leads to bondage. We’re not meant to be imprisoned in this way.”- Rich Villodas
“Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.”- Matthew 6:25 (NIV)
“The biggest big business in America is not steel, automobiles, or television. It is the manufacture, refinement, and distribution of anxiety.”- Eric Sevareid
In Chapter 9 (“Our Anxiety”) of The Narrow Path, Rich Villodas contends that worry and anxiety make the world go round. Furthermore, worry and anxiety provide the impetus for much of our commerce and decision making.
Most significantly, in a 2022 study, the American Psychological Association detailed this alarming news. That 72% of adults had experienced additional health impacts that resulted from stress. Because, as Jesus states in Matthew’s gospel, a life centered around mammon always leads to worry.
Certainly, Rich observes, it’s easy to feed the worry monster within. Especially when we resist the spiritual, emotional, and relational resources at our disposal. Resources to help us deal with legitimate concerns. But Jesus, Rich exhorts, knows your world. A world with all your responsibilities, worries, fears, and hopes. Above all, Jesus wants to let some oxygen in the room.
In conclusion, Pastor Villodas explains:
“”[Jesus] clarifies that a life oriented around possessions is a life of anxiety. Much like the words of the Our Father (the Lord’s Prayer) about daily bread, Jesus calls his followers to a carefree and content life. He is not saying that food, drink, and clothing are unimportant; he’s saying they can’t be ultimate.”
As we rely on and trust in Jesus, He leads us to the off-ramp from worry and anxiety.
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you when you tend to feel worry to avoid feeding that worry? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Carefree spirituality”