Worry-Free by Dave Branon

I just wanted to share this devotional that I stumbled across the other day. With all of the horrible things happening in our world, I found myself worried about the growing backlash against those, like myself, who speak out against it with a Christian voice. This devotional was quite the comfort, and I feel I should share it.

Trying to stay aware of current events has its downside because bad news sells better than good news. It’s easy to become overly concerned about the criminal acts of individuals, crowds or governments over whom we have no control.

Psalm 37 gives perspective to the daily news. David begins by saying, “Do not fret because of those who are evil” (v.1). Then he proceeds to outline for us some alternatives to becoming overly anxious. In essence, David suggests a better way of thinking about negative news in our world.

What would happen if, instead of worrying about events beyond our control, we chose to trust in the Lord? (v.3). Wouldn’t we be better off to “take delight in the Lord” (v.4) rather than fret without limits? Imagine the freedom from the worry we could have if we would “commit [our] way to the Lord” (v.5). And how calm we could be by learning to “be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him”! (v.7).

News of trouble we cannot change offers us an opportunity to set boundaries for our concerns. As we trust God, commit our ways to Him, and rest in Him, our outlook brightens. The struggles and trials may not disappear, but we will discover that He gives us His peace in the midst of them.

This devotional was written way before the events of the past few weeks. Funny how God’s timing is so perfect, eh?