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Finding Peace Amid Worry
Deborah Gomez

I remember that in high school, my biggest struggle was worrying. I’ve worried my whole life! I’ve worried about all sorts of things: how others view me, school projects, my outfits, friends, family, my dog Max, punctuality, work, rest, etc. Those things now sound silly said out loud, but at the moment, they felt dire.

My life changed during my sophomore year when I went on a mission trip to Vietnam. It was my first time on a plane! This trip changed how I viewed people, their lives, my life, and the world. I remember looking out the window and seeing the ocean filled with boats that looked so tiny from my perspective. But I could only imagine how small the plane would look if I were on the ship looking at the sky.

As you go through this year worrying about things that look so big up close. Take a step back and ask God for a new perspective. The situations might not be as big as they look at first; even if they are, God is bigger.

If you also struggle with worry, you are not alone. Matthew 6:25-34 is an excellent reminder that worry doesn’t have any benefit. I love this passage because it is literally Jesus speaking to us, telling us that God cares so much for us and that we are valuable to Him. The God who created and cares for every creature and plant also provides for you. Worry steals your peace.

Seek His kingdom first, and you will know peace. Live this year to the fullest by inviting God to guide your steps. Maybe you can start a Jesus club at your school, sit next to someone lonely at lunch, be kind and pray for your enemies and your families, go on a mission trip, join a worship team, or countless other areas where God may lead. You can do much more to represent Jesus when you walk in the calling God has prepared for you.

After reading Matthew 6, how will you respond to worry this year?