John Mulligan’s lesson on Sunday was the last in his series: The Problem of Worry, part 4 - what a worry-free life looks like. Taken from Phil. 4:4-9, the lesson describes 5 features of a worry-free life in Christ. This doesn’t mean disregarding responsibilities. It’s about taking life seriously, but with a calm sense of purpose. We can accomplish that with five practices:
1) Continual rejoicing in the Lord. As that first verse says, “Rejoice in the Lord always, rejoice!” To be clear, joy (or rejoicing) doesn’t necessarily imply happiness. Happiness is fleeting. We can rejoice without panicking because “this too shall pass.”
2) Be in constant anticipation of the Lord’s return (4:5, “The Lord is near…”) He is close to us always and we need to be ready. The great day is coming when all our problems will be eclipsed when we are with Him for eternity.
3) Consistent thanksgiving! Thanksgiving is a powerful weapon against consistent worry. Instead of obsessing on what is wrong, think about the many things that are right. Be specific with these thankful thoughts. Make a list if you have to, so you can return to it and be reminded of your blessings.
4) Have a preoccupation with good things. Verse 8, “...whatever is true, whatever is noble… right… pure… lovely… admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” Close off your sources of negativity, whether it’s the news, social media, or negative people. There are countless good, lovely, and admirable things in our world. If we concentrate on those, we lock the door against worry (Satan).
5) Faithful practice of Christian principles. Verse 9 tells us to put these into practice. Don’t just think about it, live a good, Christian life of service to others.
In summary, let’s be consumed with productivity. Write a card, make a phone call, visit someone who’s sick -- using whatever skills you have is putting faith into practice. While you are living these five practices, you will be exempt from worry’s pull. Verse 9, “And the God of peace will be with you.”
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