What do you think about when you hear the word worry? Maybe you think of a situation or occurrence that causes you to feel fearful, or perhaps your mind wanders to an upcoming appointment or meeting. Whatever it is, I want to share with you today that worry has nothing to do with an event or circumstance, but rather with avoidance. Worry is actually what happens when we try to avoid unpleasant feelings or experiences.

When we have been hurt or burned by someone or something, our bodies and minds have a natural defense mechanism, which is typically to put up walls and vow to ourselves that we won’t let it happen again. Nobody likes pain, but the reality is that it’s an important part of life. In fact, the worst thing we can do to hinder our walk with God is to spend our lives curled up in a ball trying to avoid pain and danger.

Friend, you are more than a conqueror through Him who loved you, so refuse to live in an emotionally guarded prison cell. When the waves knock you down, get right back into the water; when you fall out of the boat, climb back in and keep sailing forward. Don’t spend time meditating on the things that you are afraid of, just do them! Face your fears and know that as you do, you will never be alone. Not only is Jesus with you, but you are in the family of God and you have friends who will love you, pray for you, and help you as you move past the obstacles of fear and worry. When you “do life” with Jesus and His people, you will be upheld and supported so you can keep pressing on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called you heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14)! Isn’t that wonderful news?