Everywhere we turn, people are worried about something. But anxiety and frustration are not part of God’s plan for our lives. Dr. Stanley uses Scripture to explain how anxiety may be natural but, left in our hands, can grow into a much bigger problem. Anxiety should be a passing thing—placed in the hands of the Father who knows all things.
Sermon Outline
Worry is a very human response to the world in which we live. Perhaps that’s why Jesus addressed it so directly and lovingly during His time on earth. He wanted us to know we don’t have to live that way. In this week’s sermon, Dr. Stanley directs us to faith’s answer for anxiety.
Key Passage: Matthew 6:25-34
Supporting Passage: 1 Peter 5:7
In our modern world, people are worried about many things, and anxiety can take more than simply a physical toll. But as believers, we can live in such a way that it doesn’t control our days.
► “God has given us the capacity to shed the worries that we don’t want to go to bed with.”
Anxiety and worry are similar. These attitudes…
Are dangerous because they divide our mind and make us
distraught.Are distractions of the mind, heart, soul, and spirit.
May occur in passing moments or lengthy seasons.
Are reactions to our circumstances.
Are discussed by Jesus in Matthew 6:25-34.
Have a resolution provided for us by God.
Can be firmly “cast away” (1 Pet. 5:7).
► “God is not the source of anxiety. He is the source of peace, confidence, and assurance.”
The causes of our anxiety include…
Feelings of inadequacy. Our sense of self-worth should be based on the fact that to God, we’re more valuable than anything else (Matt. 6:26).
Attempts to change things over which we have no control. Worrying about what we can’t change is fruitless (v. 27).
Failure to trust God to provide for our needs. It’s right to want to care for ourselves, but at the same time, we must still look to God as our source of greatest provision. (vv. 28-32).
Misplaced priorities. When we seek Him first, He will provide all we need (v. 33).
Attempting to control the future. Trying to plan our tomorrows won’t always work. At some point, it’s necessary to give the calendar to God.
► “Seek first His kingdom’ means living a life that’s sanctified, a life in which Jesus is very evident.”
There are several ways to build our trust in God as our Provider. We can ...
Decide that the first thing we want to think about each day is God.
Say to Him, “If You’ll guide me, I’m going to be obedient to You. Here’s my life today. I trust You to meet my needs.”
Realize the only options are either to worry or to trust in His provision.
After Watching
Dr. Stanley said, “God assumes full responsibility for meeting our needs when our priority is to be obedient to Him.” How has this been true in your experience?
If you struggle with anxiety, spend a few moments writing down your worries. When you get up each morning, use the list and pray, Lord, I am anxious about _________, but I’m placing it in Your capable, loving hands. Help me to learn to trust You more each day. In Jesus’ name, amen.
