August 1998

I constantly worry about things. My guess is that you do, too.  Worrying is common. We may differ over what issues make us anxious or uneasy - but we all still worry. These days I think we worry too much. Worry is now too much of the modern human condition. It has become a societal disease.

In my readings and in counselling people, I have discovered that there are some very valid and very serious things about which to worry. Life isn’t easy or simple. These issues include family concerns, business problems, relationships, health, finances and a myriad of others overwhelming in number and as individual as each of us. The issues are real.

But just because we have reason to worry doesn’t make worrying a reasonable approach. In fact, worrying is counterproductive.  Worrying is especially counterproductive when it drains us of the energy we need to properly address the problem or when it becomes such a habit it makes us chronically ill.  Ulcers and migraines offer little in the way of solution.  Worrying is like getting mad or drinking too much - it just gives you something to do while the problem gets worse.

Ironically, we have almost as many positive resources as we have worries or negative responses; doctors, counsellors, financial planners, friends, and family.  But they are insufficient - especially in the long run.  For the long run, we need more.

Sometimes we rely on platitudes and other emotional placebos. Or try to. “Don’t worry, be happy!” or one of my favourites: “Forget it, you have nothing to worry about!”  These well-meaning phrases rarely make one “happy” and never erase worries.

Why not?  Why can’t all the King's horses and all the King's men put us back together again?  Because worry is part of the human condition.  It is a natural response, like fear or hunger, and it has to be addressed in the same practical ways.  Worry is also a natural consequence of weak or hesitant faith.  It may be natural in the circumstance, mind you, but it is only completely addressable through God.  Real faith is remembering that God loves you and, however it all turns out - with your hand in His - it will eventually turn out for the best.

Recipe for worrying less:

1.        You are not 100% in control of your life.  But you are 100% in control of your faith.

2.        Share your worries with your friends.  Ask for help and give it in return.

3.        Be proactive.  Do what you can and do the right thing.  It is easier to worry when your mind and hands are idle.

4.        Pray and have faith.  God will provide.  It may not show up as you expected, but it will show up.

5.        And remember these words......

So do not fear for I am with you,

Do not be dismayed for I am your God

I will strengthen you and help you

 I will uphold you with my righteous right hand       

                                                                                                                                                                         Isaiah 41:10

As you struggle with your worries, remember that you are not alone.  You have your family, friends and wonderful modern resources in this physical world and you have God in your spiritual one.  Together with you, they make a formidable team.

Blessings,

Tom Cooper

                                                                                                                                             Volume V11, Issue 4

P.S. Many thanks to David Cox, one of my editors, who greatly contributed to this article.

98-v7-i4.doc/8-May-98