Cast Your Worry
Sometimes you might feel down because a situation isn’t going your way or someone did something to upset you. Although there are plenty of more productive things you could be doing, you choose to live inside your head, thinking and stressing yourself with negative thoughts about your problem. Or, maybe you try to distract yourself by binging TV shows, movies, or gaming nonstop.
Whether you’re excessively worrying and overthinking your problem, or are trying to make yourself feel better with distractions and temporary pleasures, the situation only gets worse because it remains unsolved. So, what should you do?
Instead of letting worry consume you, or distract you, remember that God is always near and He is always faithful, even when we aren’t. Though David vented to God, expressing his sorrow over being betrayed by a close friend in Psalm 55, he knew that God heard his voice (v.17), and that God doesn’t change (v.19). It makes a difference when you know that you have someone to talk to about your worries. It’s even better when you know that they can relate to you. Jesus can relate to us because He chose to come into the world in human form and experience everything that humans face daily. He got thirsty, hungry, and tired. He also experienced betrayal and unjust treatment, as He was betrayed by Judas and was sent to die, despite being completely innocent. It also makes a difference when you can talk to someone who isn’t fickle. You know you’re talking to a reliable person who cares about you and won’t judge you or tell others about your situation. We can rely on Jesus’ unconditional love and personal concern for all that concerns us.
David says, “Cast your cares on the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken” (v. 22). This means tell Jesus about your concerns and trust that He will help you get through any problem. Don’t let your worries occupy your mind and keep you anxious; bring them to Him. If it’s hard to pray because so much is on your mind, try journaling your worries, writing as if you are speaking directly to God. He will be there to encourage you and comfort you. He will help you to understand the purpose of the problem, whether it is to grow you or remove something or someone out of your life that is not His best for you. Through it all, He will remind you that He loves you and that He is working all things for your good.
David finally says, “But as for me, I trust in You” (v. 23). You can’t possibly remain consumed with worry if you put your trust in God. He is a safe place for you to run to. And that will never change. You can trust Him to help you overcome any obstacle.
Verses: Psalm 55:1-23
I encourage you to read Psalm 55 today.