READING TODAY: Deuteronomy 27-31; Luke 12
I constantly think about the well-being of our kids and family. Where are they? Are they safe? Are they happy? Are they thriving? What can I do to help them?
I constantly look at our finances. How will we pay for the new furnace? How will be pay for the new hot water heater? Do we have enough money saved for our kids’ college? Are we saving enough for retirement?
I consistently worry about my profession. Am I with the right company? Will my role be supported long term? Are the sacrifices my family and I are making for my career worth it?
Worry and stress erode us. Here are some interesting statistics from the American Society for Stress.
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- 55% of Americans are stressed during the day.
- The global average of the number of stressed people out of 143 countries is 35%.
- Stress causes 57% of US respondents to feel paralyzed.
- 63% of US workers are ready to quit their job to avoid work-related stress.
- Chronic stress is commonplace at work with 94% of workers reporting feeling stress at work.
Jesus stated in Luke 12:30-31, “For all these things, the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the Kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you.”
I strive to focus to my time, effort, and thoughts on our Father and the promise of fulfillment and salvation in Heaven. Scripture tells us to focus our efforts and lives on His Kingdom, His glory, and glorifying Him will enrich our lives here on earth. Let us not toil away our days wondering and worrying about many things that are out of our control. Let us manage our minds and faith on the One that truly matters, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Jesus also said in Luke 12:34, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Let us treasure the journey on this earth, the sacrifices, the joys, the tribulations, and even the suffering. It is all for the glory and good of our Savior, to grow closer to Him.
Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”
