“Anxiety is a thin stream of fear, trickling through the mind. If encouraged, it cuts a channel into which all other thoughts are drained.” 

What a powerful picture this is of the effect that worry, stress and fear have on our lives when they are left unchecked. 

When worry becomes “a channel” in our minds all our good thoughts and positive experiences are drained away, and we are robbed of joy, peace, and rest. 

Chuck Swindoll has wisely observed that three things that rob us of experiencing life as God intended it to be, are “worry, stress and fear”. 

This unhealthy trio has the unique ability to make all things appear worse than they are and when I look closely at myself, it’s a classic description of me at times! 

But then I read in Matthew 6:25-34 that I am deeply loved by God, and I can confidently take all my worries and troubles to Him.  

The trouble is, I forget so quickly what I learn and seem to need constant reminding of this truth. 

A great example of a follower of Jesus who took all his worries to God is the Apostle Paul and you see this especially in his letter to the Philippians. 

Paul had plenty to be anxious about when he wrote to them: 

People were envious of his ministry, he was under house arrest in Rome awaiting his trial before Caesar, and it was quite likely the verdict would come down against him, condemning him to death. 

He had plenty to worry and stress about but although they had the potential to rob him of his joy in Christ and life generally, he never succumbs to despair. 

Instead, he lets the Philippians (and us) in on his secret in chapter 4, verse 13: 

“I can do all things through Him (Jesus) who strengthens me.” 

May the One Who told us not worry be your strength and source of peace today – just as He was for Paul – as you give your cares to Him!