Worry can significantly impact how our illness affects our life, so how can we truly get a grip on it before it destroys all hope for peace? Karen shares.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life . . .” (Matthew 6:25).
It’s a simple concept: don’t worry. People say it all the time but it’s much easier said than done.
How does one “not worry”? How can you actually reduce your anxiety? After all, chronic illness comes with a lot of legitimate worries! Even those without chronic health issues have a ton of worries!
My anxiety level always jumps up if I start having a new symptom. In my case, I’ve gotten used to all my issues so when a new pain or symptom presents itself, I worry! What if it’s a whole new problem? What if it’s something serious? Which doctor do I make an appointment with to check it out?
The thought of having one more thing to add to the list of what’s wrong with me can feel overwhelming!
Here are some practical steps that I take when my anxiety is high.
- Realize and accept that there is nothing I can do to change my circumstances. Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (Luke 12:25).
- Surrender the situation to God. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
- Have courage and believe that God is completely capable of doing exactly what needs to be done. “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine . . .” (Ephesians 3:20).
It is still easier said than done but I find that going through all three points can help.
Prayer: Lord, help me to trust You and not feel anxious. Help my faith to be strong. Amen.
About the author:
Karen Weber is from the MidWest and lives with her husband. She has been diagnosed with several autoimmune diseases for over 20 years. She has led a support group and has taught classes for the community on “Living Well with Chronic Illness.”
Does anxiety and worry become an issue for you?
This is Jeremy Camp singing “Same Power.” It is a good reminder that the same power that created the lands and the seas, the same power who said “Let there be light” we have in us. With His power, there is nothing we cannot do. We are fully capable of doing exactly what God has planned for our lives. A good thing to meditate on today. -Lisa
Love your devotional about how you handle worry. My favorite way to handle worry is shown in Philippians 4:6. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
I start by finding something I can thank God for in the situation: “Thank you God that I have a husband who is willing to help me when I wake up in severe pain. Thank You that I have good doctors who are working to find a way to help me feel better.” Then I bring God’s power into the situation by asking Him to intervene. Sometimes I feel better, other times I have more grace to make it through a tough day. Either way, the peace of God is with me.
My additional “help” is to distract myself by making sure I am busy focusing on other things. Even a list of things to accomplish.
Especially for other people. I can get so wrapped up doing for them, that I forget about my own concerns.
If it’s waiting on test or CBC results, I do note of how long I must wait, but then I turn my focus to other important things. And…there are Many Important Things out there, believe me.
I couldn’t agree more! Focusing on others is always a positive for us. There are so many that have problems much bigger than me. It’s good to remember that.
Barbara, thanks for your words of wisdom!
Yes, as you say, easier said than done. I’m a professional worrywart about everything. 🙁 I often have to pray the serenity prayer. I love the practical tips you give along with the verses, Karen. Thank you. You, too, Lisa, for this encouraging song.
Trudy – I laughed out loud when you said you are a professional worrywart. I am in the same club! 🙂
Keren thank you for your three points to ponder, and absorb each time we feel worry trying to overtake us. I can deff see and feel the refreshing peace given from each Scripture. What a perfect way to do battle. Was perfect timing this. Week! God bless. Di
Diane – glad it was perfect timing! 🙂
Hi Karen!
I am a big time worry wart. I worry about any new symptoms I have in relation to how it may affect my family. I worry about finances, bills, my grown children. And I keep in prayer giving it all back to the Lord.
One thing that helps me is listening to gentle Christian music. When it is on I find myslef turning my eyes to Jesus, and singing His praises. Your three points are a wonderful way to turn our eyes unto the Fathers grace also.
Isn’t it great that we can band together and learn from each other?
Sandy Platt
Sandy – I listen to music too – it helps!
Great topic & message Karen! Thanks 🙂
Worry? Me? Never!! Yep…. my nose is growing!! 😉 I worry about sooo many things that are such a waste of time & energy!! So, this is a constant lesson for me, but I do think that it’s gradually getting easier to turn things over to the Lord, who is infinitely greater than anything I worry about!
Loved the list of 3 helps with verses. Excellent for me! Thanks. Lotsoluv Kerryn