A lot of people get caught in fear’s trap because it seems like wisdom.

“I need to be concerned about this.”

“So many things could go wrong, and I need to make sure they don’t happen.” Or “I need a game plan just in case they do happen!” 

That kind of thinking seems logical and helpful in the moment, but it quietly goes against what the Bible says.  

If we want real peace in our lives, we need to approach fear and worry this way:

Do not worry about anything. But pray and ask God for everything you need. And when you pray, always give thanks. And God’s peace will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. The peace that God gives is so great that we cannot understand it. (Phil. 4:6–7 ICB)

The Lord doesn’t want you to live in a pit of fear where you are desperately fighting to keep your life together. He can look after you and keep your life together for you. That is how He designed you—to rest in Him, without any concerns.

Give Him Your Heavy Burden 

Right now, the Lord is inviting you to set the heavy burden you are wrestling with in His hands and rest in Him instead. He has something “light” for you that won’t weigh you down:  

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matt. 11:28–30 NLT)

That is what God wants to do with all the things you are afraid of. Let Him have the heaviness, and He will give you rest in its place. Allow Him the privilege of “worrying” for you, because that is what He wants to do.

Only One Thing Is Needed

When you are worried and troubled, the answer is to sit with Jesus:

Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41–42 NKJV) 

Mary had the opportunity to worry, but she chose to focus on Jesus instead (Luke 10:39). That was the only thing she actually needed. 

Contemplate with the Holy Spirit

Think of one thing that scares you or makes you feel uncomfortable. Then think of that thing in light of Matthew 11:28–30.  

Jesus wants to give you rest. He wants to teach you. The “burden” He has for you will fit you. It will be good for your heart.

What is the Holy Spirit saying about the thing you are afraid of? Beloved child of God, you can trust Him and whatever He tells you.

Your heavenly Father loves you more than you realize! For more about His amazing, unending love, check out Becoming the One by Salomé Roat. Click here to learn more. The book is also available in Spanish.