I often deal with worry and anxiety, and so today I was looking at Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25-34. In talking about this passage, William Barclay makes the assertion that worry is essentially a distrust of God. In his discussion, he says that worry does not come from circumstances outside of us, but the state of our hearts within. The question is, who is on the throne of your life? He quotes this story:
One day the German mystic Johann Tauler met a beggar “God give you a good day, my friend,” he said. The beggar answered, “I thank God I never had a bad one.” Then Tauler said, “God give you a happy life, my friend.” “I thank God,” said the beggar, “I am never unhappy.” Tauler then said in amazement, “What do you mean?” “Well,” said the beggar, “when it is fine, I thank God. When it rains, I thank God. When I have plenty I thank God. When I am hungry I thank God. And since God’s will is my will, and whatever pleases him pleases me, why should I say I am unhappy when I am not?” Tauler looked at the man in astonishment, “Who are you?” he asked. “I am a king,” said the beggar. “Where, then, is your kingdom?” asked Tauler. The beggar replied quietly, “In my heart.”
It seems the answer to worry is not to try to wade your way through all the circumstances surrounding you, nor to struggle towards some higher station in life, hoping worry will finally be dispensed with, but to swiftly deal with the one issue inside of you – are you trusting in God?
Happiness is knowing God and His will for you. It’s obedience rather than sacrifice and it’s being true to what He has called you to be. Great Post Kenny.