No need to be anxious
We are in Branson! We arrived yesterday. This area is so beautiful and with the added blessing of our condo with a breath-taking view of the lake from the balcony, it truly is millennial! We are planning a horseback riding excursion this morning. I am under the weight limit – yay! But, just barely – boo! No really, poor horse.
Things are coming together for the duties regarding the Business Office at the Feast and that is encouraging. Almost all the volunteers have sent email confirmation that they can serve. Most of the materials needed have been rustled up, and all communication at this point is current – things are truly going well.
My sermonette is also ready. Final touches have been made. I am reminded here of God’s admonition, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. . .” (Philippians 4:6) The topic of being anxious is an interesting one indeed. The Proverbs state, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad.” (Prov 12:25) Anxiety is the precursor to depression so it must be avoided at all costs. Nothing is as damaging as one allowing themselves to become worried and fearful about the future – something that is clearly out of one’s control to control. The dictionary definition for anxious is “full of mental distress or uneasiness because of fear of danger or misfortune; greatly worried; solicitous”.
Mankind through the lens of society seems full of mental distress. There is no peace. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) Jesus tells us not to be troubled; not to be afraid. “The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.” (Prov 29:25) Solomon, in the book of Ecclesiates states, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13) Could it be more plain?
