Why Worry? ASAP

Matthew 6:24-34

After worship this morning, several commented on the poem that was read at the end of the sermon.  They told me that it was a message that either they or people they cared about needed to hear.  I've printed it below for those who would like a copy to print out as a reminder of a new meaning of ASAP.

We all have worries- some big and some small.  Worry takes the light and energy out of our lives.  It causes us to lose sleep. It wears us down (see Proverbs 12:25).  In large doses, it is bad for our health- physical, emotional and spiritual.  Many things we worry about may never happen or are things that happened in the past that we can't change. When we are anxious, we lose perspective on what really matters. 

As children of God, we have a very special means of dealing with the worries and anxieties of life:  prayer.  Throughout the Holy Scriptures, we are reminded that we have a loving, forgiving God who cares for his children and provides what they need.  We can trust in this amazing God because he promised his people:  "I will not forget you.  See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands." (Isaiah 49:15-16).  To seal this promise, the nails of the cross became tine inscriptions upon Jesus' hands.

During his "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew, chapters 5-7, Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray in order to comfort them and give them encouragement for their lives of faith.  The prayer he taught is known as "The Lord's Prayer."   If you can't think of any other words to pray, the Lord's Prayer is a model prayer for "worry warts."

"Why Worry?  A.S.A.P."

"There's work to do, deadlines to meet;
 You've got no time to spare,

 But as you hurry and scurry-
 ASAP-ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER

In the midst of family chaos,
"Quality time" is rare.

 Do your best; let God do the rest-
ASAP-ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.

It may seem like your worries
Are more than you can bear.
Slow down and take a breather-
ASAP-ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER

God knows how stressful life is,
He wants to ease our cares,
And He'll respond to all your needs
ASAP-ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.

I hope this brings some light into those dark periods of worry that we all face.  Remember:  "Worry replaced with Prayer equals Trust"

Peace be with you,

Pastor JMe