How many times have I told you not to do that? 
I hear myself asking that question multiple times a day. Sometimes, it is rhetorical. Other times, I really want an answer. Seriously, how many times?
Or, when I give very specific instructions only to have the child not do the task that I sent her off to do.
I’m sorry. Are we not speaking the same language here?
As any parent knows, it can be quite frustrating.
Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? – Luke 6:46
Well. Um. Uh. Yeah, I got nothing.
As I read this passage about the wise and foolish builders (Luke 6:46-49,) I find it interesting that there is no question about whether or not a storm will come. The flood waters rise equally around both homes. It is not a matter of being prepared if a storm were to arise. The question is, will we be prepared when it arises?
In just one short passage in the book of Matthew, Jesus instructs his listeners five times to not worry.
Do not worry about your life (Matthew 6:25.) That pretty much covers everything. But, just in case you need a more specific word, Jesus is more than happy to break it down for you.
Do not worry about:
- your life in general
- what you will eat
- what you will drink
- your body
- what you will wear
- tomorrow
- what to say or how to say it
- defending yourself (Luke 12:11)
For someone like myself who is prone to worry – this list pretty much covers everything. Anything that tempts me to despair is included in that list.
So, when my flesh wants to worry, I have to make a conscious decision not to do so. I have to remind myself that I do not have to worry about that thing whatever it may be. Worry never did a body any good any how.
Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? – Matthew 6:27
Worrying does not add a single hour to your life or a single dollar to your bank account.
Worrying never made a sick person well or a relationship better.
The worrier is one who has made themselves their foundation and, when the storm comes, the fall is hard and painful. They are adrift without an anchor feeling lost and helpless. They lie awake at night imagining the worst and they carry a burden with them everywhere they go. Goodness, I know this person all too well.
Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? – Luke 6:46
And, just for funsies {I totally made that word up but I use it all the time.}, what does the Lord say we should do instead of worrying?
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11:28
We take it to him and, then, we rest.
Let’s see. Worry or rest? Rest or worry?
I think the right choice is clear.
Happy Monday. I love y’all more than the first scoop from a brand new jar of peanut butter.
