The anxious heart says, “There’s trouble out there!” So you don’t sleep well. You don’t laugh often. Misfortune lurks; it’s just a matter of time. And, as a result, you’re anxious. You are not alone. Our society is crippled by anxiety. How can this be? Our cars are safer than ever. We regulate food and water and electricity. Yet if worry were an Olympic event, we’d win the gold medal!
Keep in mind that anxiety is not a sin; it’s an emotion. It can, however, lead to sinful behavior. When we numb our fears with six-packs or food binges, when we peddle our fears to anyone who’ll buy them, we are sinning. Jesus gave this word, “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighted down with… the anxieties of life” (Luke 21:34 NIV).
God made you for more than a life of angst and mind-splitting worry. He has a new chapter for your life. And he is ready to write it!