Don't Worry, Be Happy

“Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

The song made musician Bobby McFerrin a household name, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” One lyric in the song says, “In every life we have some trouble, but when you worry you make it double.” Indeed most of us worry, daily, about something. Money, work, decisions, deadlines, relationships, problems that might or might not come to pass. A little anxiety is really a part of everyday life.

But worry can and does become a disorder when we allow it to continue over time. Constant worry affects our relationships and responsibilities. It can become excessive, irrational fears and dread that keeps us from functioning at all. Physical ailments and emotional instability can be traced to a lifestyle filled with worry. The songwriter suggests the simplest solution for worry—just give it up. “Don’t worry, be happy.” Psychologists suggest solutions for worry like self-soothing, distracting tactics, exercise, or taking up a hobby. But a real end to worry is a spiritual one.

Jesus clearly tells us in Matthew 6:25-34, not to worry. His solution? Put our trust in God. Pray and ask Him to take care of our most important needs. Cast our cares and worries on Him and depend on Him. In spiritual terms, worry is the opposite of trust. To worry is to distrust that God knows your future and has your best interest at heart. He does! His greatest act of love toward us is shown in the death and resurrection of His Son. God not only loves us, He cares what happens to us. 1 Peter says, “Cast all your anxiety of Him, because He cares for you.”

God, today I trust you with the things that I am worrying about. I know that You care for me and care what happens to me, and You always want the very best for me. I believe today that Your care for me is real and that You will take care of those things I am worrying about. Let today be an opportunity to know You more as I trust You with my worries. In Jesus’ name, Amen.