We all worry from time to time. But sometimes that worry can become all-consuming, uprooting us from reality. But while worry can easily get out of control, there are ways to stay grounded, remember what’s true, and overcome your worry.
The 3 roots of worry
Worry takes root like a weed in our hearts and minds, and there are 3 primary things that drive it. When we can identify the underlying cause of our worry, we get closer to untangling from it. Which of these is the root cause of your worry?
1. Conditioning
Do you ever feel like worrying is just part of your personality? There’s a good chance your past experiences and upbringing conditioned you to be a worrier. If you grew up surrounded by anxiety and fear, or had an experience that left you in fight-or-flight mode, you may be carrying these burdens into your life today. Even your workplace can condition you to worry, especially when you frequently deal with a high level of stress or pressure.
2. Concealing
Some of us live in a constant state of worry because we’re keeping parts of ourselves hidden. When we live with secrets like past mistakes or ongoing struggles, we also carry the constnt fear that someone will find us out. Ultimately, secrets destroy our peace.
3. Control
Sometimes our worry comes from an attempt to control everything around us. But trying to control every single outcome and plan out every moment of our lives is like holding onto a handful of sand – no matter how hard we try, we can’t keep a hold on everything. This constant game of cat-and-mouse amplifies our anxiety and worry, taking us out of the present.
How to untangle from the roots of worry
For each of these root causes of worry, Jesus offers us ways to disentangle ourselves from them and experience the peace and freedom he offers us. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus says, “Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?”
This metaphor reminds us that God is aware of our worries, our desires, and our needs. With that truth in mind, here are some practical ways to break free from constant worry:
1. Know the difference between worry and concern
Concern is healthy. It drives us to take action on the things we can control that work for our benefit. If you’re concerned about your health, for example, it may drive you to prioritize intentional movement or schedule a doctor’s appointment. If you’re concerned about your financial security, that concern may compel you to start saving.
Worry, on the other hand, causes us to ruminate on the what if's that we have no control over. Jesus wants you to remember that, while it’s important to care about what could happen, you don’t need to worry. Your future is safe in God’s hands. After all, he takes care of the brids, and you’re much more important to him!
2. Don't suffer in silence
If you’re struggling with worry, hanging onto that yourself will only further the cycle. The Bible discourages us from carrying our burdens on our own. In Psalm 32:3, we read, “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away.” If there’s something on your heart, talk to someone you can trust – a friend, a pastor, or even a counselor. If you need help finding a counselor or pastor to talk to, let us know!
3. Trust what God says
Worry reveals what we really believe about God – and the things you worry most about often point to the areas you trust God the least. To overcome worry, challenge the areas you doubt God’s goodness and faithfulness. In Matthew 6:32, Jesus reminds us, “Your heavenly father already knows all your needs.” Ask God to help you trust in that truth and hand your worries over to him.
Be a light in a dark, worry-filled world
In a world full of anxiety, we have the opportunity to be a much-needed light. When we stay anchored in the truth of who God is, we can live without worry or fear of the future – and that makes us stand out in a world filled with anxiety and tension. When we walk in peace, we show those around us that true peace is possible!
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Is pain causing you to worry? Check out these 4 prayers for strength through pain and conquer your fearful thoughts.
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