Worry vs Concern

Back in the Burg for a couple of days before I hit the road again for a weekend trip to see two of my amazing friends :) On my way up, I was able to have some good, quality "Jesus time"...doing my share of talking then LISTENING!!! The last couple days, weeks, and months I've been asking God to just give me a sign (Isaiah 7:11 "Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights.") but on my way up, I was able to have some good, quality "Jesus time"...doing my share of talking then LISTENING!!!

I loved the weekend I was able to spend with my girl friends because we have not been able to just relax together in a really long time. All three of us are usually rushed or in a time crunch when we are able to see each other OR on the other side of the US. But it was sooo nice to do what ever we wanted to with each other while not having to be overwhelmed with other things.

On my journey back to the Burg (...again), I began to think about some things that have been going on in my life and those around me. The thing that really stuck in my mind was the difference between worry and concern then my mind went directly to the scripture where Jesus says "do not worry."

Matthew 6:25-34 (Luke 12:22-32)

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?... Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
"And why do you worry.... O you of little faith? So do not worry...But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

I am glad that I can say that this is the way mind my went because in most cases I try to take care of the problem or love on the person that much more in order to help. However, Jesus tells us NOT to worry because it does nothing for us (but give us more of a headache...ugh). So I directed my thoughts and feelings to being concern for these people and what is going on and continuing praying for them...it is not that I do not want the uneasiness or trouble in worrying but why should I do something my Lord tells me specifically not to. I pray that I will continue to be aware, engage, interest, and care for those important people in my life...ultimately it is my Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6b) who will take care of it all.

Thank you Father for being my firm foundation and ever help ALL the time. I love you!!