Choice

I was with someone this week who was worried about the results of a medical test.

The individual administering the test was assuring this person that everything would be fine, as things had been  going well.  When the results proved her words were true, she then proceeded to say “See, there was nothing to worry about“.

The person I was with said, “Well, I worry”. 

I said, “Yes, you do worry.  Why do you worry?”

Their response was, “If I have nothing to worry about then everything is good.”

I actually had to write down what they said.  I don’t think they realized how much they had spoken from their heart.

Out of the overflow of the heart, one speaks.

We can only determine our attitude.  Whether it be positive or negative.

No matter how much I may desire someone’s attitude to be positive I can not change it.  Only pray about it.

Everyday we have a choice to be anxious & worried or take the path of peace.

There are many things that we could all choose to be anxious or worried about.  I think of the anxious, worried path like a train rail.  We can get stuck on that track.  Round and round our thoughts go.  Streaming down the track, increasing speed and tension, including additional bumps and stresses because of our heightened tension.  Ever snap at someone because of other stresses going on?  Ouch.  I have.

So, I have a choice.  Experience has taught me the quicker I can remember not to get on the trail rail the better.  I’m learning as I’m getting older (ha!).   Aren’t we all works in progress.  I try to remember this promise:

Philippians 4:4-9

“Rejoice in the Lord always.  I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever  is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice.  And the God of peace will be with you.”

Peace be with you.