Weed Killers

Worry is a nasty weed.

Most of the time I am able to "take my thoughts captive" (2 Corinthians 10:5) and line them up with the scriptures to combat worry. But when problems stack, they can fertilize worry.

I can give in to despair or choose to do several things. Philippians 4: 6-7 (quoted in Today's Living Bible in italics below) gives practical help.

1. Don't worry about anything (v.6).
Impossible? Perhaps we could say, don't let worry grow. As soon as I'm aware worry is constricting my joy, I have to engage my will-- not my feelings -- to start God's weed killers.

2. Instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs (v. 6).
When I turn to the Master Gardener for help, I get to confer with Him about each of my needs and ask for wisdom. It's a choice I have to make every time worry sends out another tendril.

3. And don't forget to thank Him for His answers (v. 6).
Being mindful that God is trustworthy, I can confidently thank Him for His help. I need to consciously thank Him. There is nothing timid or whiny about this kind of praying.

4. If I do this, I will experience God's peace (v. 7).
Following the Gardener's advice brings God's peace. The weeds may not immediately disappear, but regularly following these steps will cause them to shrivel and die.

This peace God gives us is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand (v. 7) It keeps our thoughts and hearts quiet and at rest as we trust in Christ Jesus (from verse 7).

Lord, thank you for helping me get rid of worry. I much prefer Your wonderful flower of peace.   

For Your Consideration

What keeps your weeds from taking over your garden?

Is there anything that is keeping you back from applying the wisdom your Master has already given?

Meditate on each phrase in this passage and listen for what the Holy Spirit will say to you.