Stupid Anxiety

I prefer calling it anxiety rather than worry. I suppose it makes me feel a little better not to refer to it as worrying or fretting, both of which I accept are unproductive behaviors. But I suppose if the shoe fits.

This morning, for some reason, I am overcome by fear, anxiety, and worry. In a couple of hours I will be standing in front of my congregation sharing with them a message from God's Word that can change their lives... and I'm worried about life and family, and VBS, and kids, and my wife, and money and all kinds of other stuff that doesn't matter.

And then God put some verses in the Bible that hadn't been there before:

I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. (Psalm 16:8)

As I read this, I should have been filled with confidence, and yet, I realize how much I try to do under my own power and strength. The reason the Psalmist isn't shaken is because he puts the Lord always before him.

Father, may I always put you before me. May I never rely on my own strength and power. I realize that you have gifted me and blessed me in so many ways, but ultimately I am nothing apart from your power. Accomplish much in me. Accomplish amazing things today in the hearts of your people. Make us aware of our lostness, brokenness and utter dependence upon you.

Help us to place you first. Then, and only then can we say:

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war rise up against me, yet I will be confident. (Psalm 27: 1, 3)