When you worry ...

When you worry about money, you’re telling God that He is unable to provide for His children. That although He has riches beyond belief in Heaven, He is too stingy to share them with you.

When you worry that no one understands you, you’re telling God that although He has been with you since before you were formed in the womb and has carved you into the palm of His hand, He doesn’t know you.

When you worry that you will not have enough food, you’re telling God that although He rained down bread from Heaven in the desert to feed His children, you are the one He’s forgotten.

When you worry that your enemies will have victory over you, you’re telling God that although He has given you spiritual battle gear to defend yourself, that despite His track record of being a giant slayer, Red Sea divider, lion mouth closer and a furnace cooler, He can’t handle your co-worker, your neighbor, or a former friend.

When you worry that no one will love you, that you’ll be lonely for the rest of your life, you’re telling God that His love is insufficient; that He couldn’t possibly love you enough to ward away loneliness. You’re saying that although He has promised life more abundantly, He was lying. That despite the fact that He started off saying that it is not good that we be alone, He has changed His mind.

When you worry and refuse to give the problem over to Him, you’re telling God that although He could create the world, He can’t handle what’s going on in your world, so you will. You are saying that He won’t work things out, that obstacles cannot be overcome, that mountains can’t be climbed, that healing cannot occur, that what is lost will not be found, that joy does not come in the morning, that He is not the God of a second chance, that the Promised Land has been swallowed up by the desert, that you have discovered the height, depth and width of His love and found it to fall short of your needs.

Consider all that you’re saying to (or thinking about) the one who loves you the most and who has all power, really think about it. Then open your hands and release what you’ve been holding onto. Bow down on your knees and ask Him to forgive you for doubting Him. Walk away with a peaceful heart and note the footsteps that go before you to make the crooked places straight, a way in the wilderness and water spring forth in the desert.