3 Surprisingly easy ways to be worry-free today. Sound too good to be true?
Years ago, I worried. Not terribly, maybe a medium amount, but I was definitely NOT worry-free.
I grew up in a small town.
Gossip about my divorced mom and, correspondingly, how it changed my life worried me constantly.
Later, I agonized that I married the wrong guy, then that we didn’t have enough money and, finally, that we weren’t raising our kids right. Ugh!
He tells us not to
But then, I accepted an invitation for a relationship with the God of the universe. I started spending time with Him on a regular basis.
He tells me (us) not to worry…and after a number of years, I basically don’t.
Can worrying change things?
I’ve learned it truly does no good. If we worry about something in the past–it’s over and no amount of worrying will change the story.
And how many times have you fretted over something in the future…and then “the something” did not even come to pass?!
Thankfully, I’ve found 3 surprisingly easy ways to be worry-free!
And, I’m excited to share them with you today.
Like I said, I’m primarily worry-free. You can be, too.
“When we put everything in God’s hands, we see God’s hand in everything.”
1. Know where to go
Time is a limited resource.
How we spend our time indicates what we value.
When we go to God… spend time with Him, we demonstrate that we value Him. We claim the Eternal King is worthy of attention, praise, and worship.
God is our refuge (Psalm 46:1-7). Life is often chaotic and confusing, which can cause worry. When you sense worry on the horizon, run to Him.
We all need shelter
If we desire to find safety in God and attain rest from worries, we need to know Him well. Such deep knowledge comes from time spent with Him.
Sometimes the best way to use a refuge/shelter/hiding place is to go there before things get messy and out of control. 😉
Having a daily quiet time, a spiritual discipline, helps us know God better and soak in truth. This hallowed time ensures we stay connected to Him (think the vine and the branches) and functions as a daily shelter in the midst of the “worry-storms of life.”
Hiding Place
This brings to mind Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “Hiding Place.“ Take 4 minutes to listen to and watch the video. The video features peaceful ocean scenes and great words to soothe your soul. 🙂
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” ~Phil 4:6-7
Do you have a refuge? Create one so you know where to go before/if worry overtakes you.
This looks like a good worry-free place!
Imagine walking through this field to start your day 🙂
2. Live in this moment
Why worry if you only have this second or minute?
We are living in the NOW; we have to. What other choice is there?
No past
Think about it: the past is gone. It doesn’t exist except in our minds.
Do you agonize about something you did in the past? Instead of worrying, learn from it, let it go, and move forward. Make restitution if needed. It will HELP YOU.
Are you fretting about something that was done to you? Listen to your heart (God sends nudges). I believe our hearts tell us what we need in order to heal. Take the first step and the next one will be clear to you. Take the high road; be your best self. No room for worries there. 😉
No future, either
The future is just a thought… as of now. Why be concerned about a thought? If you think (or know) something will happen in the future, then plan and prepare for it, don’t be anxious.
Think “At this moment, I have no problems*, I’m fine.” Life is NOW, and happiness is in the NOW, not the past or the future.
I saw this on a store window the other day: “Wherever you are, be all there.” 🙂
If we’re truly present in the present, we cannot be unhappy (worried). (Barring catastrophe*)
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” ~Matthew 6:34
*In some unusual circumstances, we may have a problem this moment, but most moments, we do not. 😉
Live in and be worry-free this moment.
3. Realize that it doesn’t make a difference!
- Worrying NEVER adjusts the outcome; it can’t.
- Guilt doesn’t alter the past precisely as worry doesn’t alter the future.
- Worry does not change tomorrow but absolutely robs today of its joy.
Don’t ruin a perfectly lovely present by worrying about a totally unknowable future. ~Elle Sommer
So, Charlie Brown, don’t worry about it and be happy today! 🙂
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11
God’s plans will happen no matter if we worry or not. So if worrying doesn’t cause a difference, why put ourselves through the torture?
Take a walk instead of worrying…
I’ve learned just how much worry and negative thoughts/energy hurt our health, on all levels; how truly detrimental stressful thoughts are. I want no part of it.
In summary, I believe 3 surprisingly easy ways to be worry-free today are:
1. Know where to go. Have a shelter in place so you’re prepared when worry tries to attack.
2. Live in this moment (and enjoy it). It’s all you have.
3. Worrying does not make a difference, so why stress yourself out?
And here’s a bonus for not worrying: You will feel better and be healthier overall! 😀
It’s always a joy to share with you.
Blessings and blooms,
Pam
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” ~Corrie Ten Boom
P.S. To alleviate your possible “concerns” from the first paragraph:
*I did marry the right guy!
*We have enough money.
*If we’re worrying about messing our kids up, chances are we won’t…
And, God is bigger than our mistakes. He’s in control, so relax. 😎
My prayer as you’re reading this is that you will truly become worry-free.
One final thought.
If we know ourselves, feel comfortable with who we are, I think we tend to worry less.
Read this for how to really know yourself.
Author: Pam
Glad you’re here!
All so true! Loved this one a lot and can put so much of this to use starting right NOW!
Love you! Thanks, Pam!!!
Hi Jana,
I’m glad you found this helpful. If I can make a difference to just one person, my writing is worth it. 🙂 Thanks! Love you.
This is a good one, mom! Good work!
Well, thanks, Chelser! Love you!