After The Work

Worry slowly saps our strength. The constant dull ache of anxiety, sometimes imperceptible, can seem like a bothersome guest in our bodies. The accompanying racing thoughts can come as we seek to analyze each problem in our life, hoping that this time an answer will come to bring resolution to the problem. Other times we move mountains to distract ourselves from our thoughts, be it screen time, busyness, food, substances–any dopamine hit we can find.

There is a perverse sort of pride with worry, hidden behind the guise of responsibility. While it is true we are responsible for our lives, there are many things we worry about that we do not have control over, thus the futile mulling of our problems. How are we to fix a problem in our life that has laid in our minds for days, weeks, or even years? What if we really do not even know why we are worried?

There are many facets to this issue, but surrender is a vital step in the process of letting go of our anxiety. Surrendering to our powerlessness over other people, places, and ideas. Surrendering to our past trauma by acknowledging something hurt us and it is ok to get help with it. Surrender does not mean defeat, only acknowledgment of reality.

Jesus taught, “²⁶ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷ Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? (Matthew 6:26-27). There are two important features of this passage. First, animals have no issues surrendering to the forces of nature. In fact, they are a part of Nature just as we are, but without the capacity for self-awareness as humans are. They have no issue understanding there is food about, when and where to migrate, how to build a nest, or to mate. They simply live and find what is offered to them. When we can accept life on life’s terms, we find things tend to work out. If we knock, the door will be opened. If we look, we will find Food.

Secondly, faith is integral to overcoming anxiety. God provides for the birds as part of Nature just as he provides for people. The Love of God extends throughout nature, sustaining its intricate beauty. How much more does God love those who have the capacity to love him back. Made in his image, our capacity for faith and empathy are signs of God’s nature. If we care for others, how much more will the God of the Universe care for us? Be it financial troubles, world events, interpersonal relationships, God has the balm for your worry. Ask, seek, and knock. Look for His answers and provision.

Worry can be overwhelming at times. Sometimes the addition of counseling and possibly medication, can assist you in overcoming anxiety. Those are but tools in the struggle. Faith calls us to believe that we are not standing on sinking sand, but firm ground. Without the foundation of “all will be well”, it is more difficult to let go. Know that you are Loved. Tell God in a prayer what your worries are and then sit and allow them to pass by. Let the anxious thoughts come, and then slip away into God’s hands.