Medical experts say excessive worry can have a shattering effect on us. It can make us nervous, fearful, restless, or sleepless; it can affect our breathing, digestion, make us sweat, weak, dizzy, nauseous, and in rare cases lead to suicide. Nearly 40 million people in America suffer from excessive worry each year. Finding relief has created a huge industry of medical advice, pills, and counseling. Knowing the reality of worry is why Jesus left us an antidote that when followed can diminish worry. We find it in Matthew chapter 6 that Jesus says it lays in a close link with Almighty God. Jesus urges His followers to draw near to our Heavenly Father who knows our situation, cares deeply for us, and is committed to sustaining us. Jesus said, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, he will give you everything you need.” Jesus used the illustration of Solomon in all his glory and the lilies of the field in all their glory to drive home that God cares for us far more than He does them. Sadly, we tend to accept this truth with our heads, yet God seeks to teach it to us with life experiences. When we worry we miss the peace that comes from relying on our all-sufficient Heavenly Father.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
