November 13th: Part One

I believe that it is a natural tendency for parents to 'worry' about their children, but if we allow that 'worry' to defeat us, we are left living a miserable life, not enjoying the wonderful moments we are in.

Recently I said something to Jason about the selling of our rental house and how I was afraid that something would happen and the deal would fall through. He said the strangest thing to me: 'Go to the bathroom and check out November 13th.' HUH?? So the next time I went to the bathroom I tried to figure out what he meant. You see, my husband isn't a big "reader" so when there's something that I think we should read I leave it in the bathroom because chances are it will get read on an extended visit to the throne. :) Anyhow, I rifled through the magazines in the vanity drawer and took out this little devotional put out by 'UCB Canada' and checked out November 13th and this is what it said:

Rise Above Worry

'God...is the...controller of all things.' 1 Timothy 6:15
We all worry from time to time, but wise people have learned to:
1. Define the situation clearly. What exactly is it you're worrying about? Be specific. Often when we take time to clarify the problem, a way to solve it will present itself.
2. Face the worst that can happen. Would you lose your job? Your relationship? Your investment? In most cases, even if the worst did happen,k chances are it wouldn't ruin you. It may be inconvenient or painful, but does it really warrant all the anxiety you're giving it?
3. Resolve to accept the outcome whatever it is. Most of the stress of worry comes from denial, from not being willing to face the worst that could happen. Once you make up your mind to accept whatever happens, you'll find worry looses its power over you.
4. Work to improve the situation. Renowned neurologist James H. Austin said, "Chance favours those in motion" Do all you can to ensure the best possible outcome, and "after you gave done everything...stand" (Ephesians 6:13). Stand on God's promises!
5. Give the problem to God. He's "the...controller of all things." The Psalmist said, "Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you" (Psalm 9:10. Remember, nothing can happen to you today, or any other day that God is not aware of, in control of, and able to bring you through.

(Written by Bob and Debby Gass and Ruth Gass Halliday in the Sept/Oct/Nov 2010 Edition of The Word for Today)

Ever since Jason sent me to the bathroom to check this entry out, it has been a household solution to any comments that have any hint of worry in them: GO READ NOVEMBER 13th!! I think it holds a lot of truth to it!