Worrying Lately? by Pastor Nate Carter

“Do not be anxious about anything.” Philippians 4:6, NIV

 If you want to test your memory, try remembering what you were worrying about a

year ago. Paul said, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1 :6, NIV). Notice, we didn’t start this work-He did! He just gave us the privilege of being involved, but He never put us in charge. He’s the captain of our salvation, and He’s never lost a passenger. Sure there will be turbulent weather and rough times when you’ll feel “queasy”. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

 We’re not hurt so much by what happens to us, as by our opinion of what happens to us. You can’t control what happens to you, but with God’s help you can control what happens in you. Remember the words, “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4)? They were written from the worst prison you’ve ever seen. The secret was, Paul was in prison, but prison wasn’t in Paul-the Kingdom of God was, and that equals righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Did you hear that? A right relationship with God that gives you confidence; a peace that is not subject to your surroundings or other people’s actions; and a joy that works from the inside out. Aren’t you glad you’re a Christian?