Today I asked my children what they worried about. I didn’t get very far. Before long, I realized I was teaching the children myself a needed lesson. I told them myself about what worry is and what God says about it. We talked about the things people can worry about: when we say something and feel silly, when we wish we had done better in soccer, how we’re going to get the house clean, children schooled appropriately, and moving accomplished sanely.
Can they I deliberately obey God’s Word this week? Yep.
What am I supposed to do instead of worry? Paul says to pray and be thankful. I can do that right now; I realize how helpful it is to remind myself about God’s provision in the past. And I can listen to my husband (that’s rather spiritual, don’t you think?) who told me a few nights ago to make a list. He’s right– it’s not as frightening when I have my tasks all laid out neatly in front of me.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
“Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins?[a] And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12:6-7
(Actually we talked for all of us, but I realize I needed the talk more than the children! Maybe tomorrow we’ll talk about this more and walk them through the process of applying the Philippians passage to their own lives.)
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