I only have one question.  What if you do all those things, and more, and it
doesn't work?  What then?

Phil.



----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Reeva Parry" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <Recipient list suppressed:>
Sent: Friday, February 22, 2008 11:13 AM
Subject: LIMITING ANXIOUS FEELINGS


> LIMITING ANXIOUS FEELINGS
>
>
> 1 Peter 5:7 NIV.
>
>
> Cast all your anxiety on Him [God] because He cares for you.
>
>
> Let's assume you have sought God's will for a certain direction, and
> you believe that He has led you to make specific plans. The problem
> is you are still worried about whether your plans will come about
> as  you have hoped. When I'm facing such situations, I try to follow
> the six steps  described below to limit
> my anxious feelings.
>
> First, state the problem. A problem well stated is half solved. In
> anxious states of mind, people can't see the forest for the trees.
> Put the problem in perspective. Will it matter for eternity? The
> danger at this juncture is to seek ungodly counsel. The world is
> glutted with magicians and sorcerers who
> will promise incredible results. Their appearance may be striking.
> Their personality may be charming. But they are bankrupt of
> character. Avoid them. (Psalm 1:1).
>
> Second, separate the facts from the assumptions. Since we don't know
> what's going to happen tomorrow, we make assumptions, and we usually
> assume the worst.
>
> If the assumption is accepted as truth, it will drive your mind to
> its anxiety limits. Therefore, you must separate assumptions from facts.
>
> Third, determine what you have the right or ability to control. You
> are responsible for that which you can control, and you are not
> responsible for that which you can't. Don't try to cast your
> responsibility onto Christ; He will throw it back.
>
> Fourth, list everything you can do which is related to the situation
> that is under your responsibility. When people don't assume
> their  responsibility, they turn to temporary cures for their
> anxiety, like eating, TV, sex or drugs.
>
> Fifth, once you are sure you have fulfilled your responsibility, see
> if there is any way you can help others. Turning your attention away
> from your  own self-absorption and onto helping people around you is
> not only the loving thing to do, but it also brings a special inner peace.
>
> Sixth, the rest is God's responsibility, except for your prayer,
> according to Philippians 4:6-8. So assume  your responsibility, but
> cast your anxiety on Christ.
>
>
> Lord, help me recognize the difference between today's
> responsibilities and anxieties, then put them in their proper places.
>
>