Do Not Be Anxious
by Dr. Michael Youssef

When you hear of terrible things going on in your community and around the world, do you feel uneasy or afraid? By way of a question, Jesus reminds us of the needlessness of anxiety: "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" (Matthew 6:27).

The truth is, when we are more concerned about our worldly possessions - our homes, our cars, our education, our clothes, or our bank accounts - than with our relationship with Christ, we will be anxious and fearful. When we practice daily surrender - of our fears, anxieties, and desires - to Christ, we will find inner peace. God has promised to provide for all of our needs according to His riches in Jesus (see Philippians 4:19).

Only the Father knows why we must wait. If you are anxious to move on to the next stage of life, or if you are praying for healing, restoration, or the salvation of a friend, know that God's purpose is served when you wait on Him (see Psalm 37:7, 40:1; Lamentations 3:26).

God already has prepared the solution for your anxieties and worries - now He is doing a work to prepare you for His answer. Wait on Him, listen to His voice, and submit to His direction.

Do not be anxious - seek first God's Kingdom and His righteousness, and He will provide for your every need (see Matthew 6:33).

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." -Psalm 139:23-24.

Excerpted from My Journal, a monthly devotional magazine from Leading The Way with Dr. Michael Youssef.

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Monday, September 15, 2008