Emeritus Prof. Mercy Olumide continues her series on the benefits of adoration. She emphasizes that the power and ability to face life's uncertainties and adversities are found in God. The term 'refuge' paints a picture of a shelter from danger, indicating that God is our true security in the storms of life (see Isaiah 4:5-6). 'Strength' refers to His might when battling our foes (Psalm 21:8; Exodus 15:13) and includes His power that works in us (Colossians 1:29), enabling us to overcome obstacles in life.
God as a Present Help
The end result is that He is 'a very present help in trouble.' God is available to His people and wants us to call upon Him for help in any time of need (Hebrews 4:16). He is sufficient for any situation and never leaves our side; thus, we need not fear.
Jesus Teaches About Worry
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus says, 'Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?' (Matthew 6:25). Because of the ill effects of worry, Jesus tells us not to worry about those needs that God promises to supply.
Ill Effects of Worry
- Worry may damage your health.
- It can cause the object of your worry to consume your thoughts.
- It disrupts your productivity.
- It negatively affects the way you treat others.
- It reduces your ability to trust in God.
How many ill effects of worry are you experiencing?
The Difference Between Worry and Genuine Concern
Worry immobilizes, but concern moves you to action.
Seven Reasons Not to Worry
Based on Matthew 6:25-34, here are seven reasons not to worry:
- The same God who created life in you can be trusted with the details of your life (6:25).
- Worrying about the future hampers your efforts for today (6:26).
- Worrying is more harmful than helpful (6:27).
- God does not ignore those who depend on Him (6:28-30).
- Worry shows a lack of faith in and understanding of God (6:31-32).
- There are real challenges God wants us to pursue, and worrying keeps us from them (6:33).
- Living one day at a time keeps us from being consumed with worry (6:34).
'But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you,' (Matthew 6:33). To 'seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness' means to turn to God first for help, to fill your thoughts with His desires, to take His character for your pattern, and to serve and obey Him in everything. What is really important to you? People, objects, goals, and other desires all compete for priority. Any of these can quickly bump God out of first place if you don't actively choose to give Him first place in every area of your life.
Those who follow Christ are urged to seek above all else God's kingdom and His righteousness.
