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The Problem of Anxiety

3/19/2023

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     One of the problems of a fallen world is anxiety of spirit. In this fallen world the human heart is prone to experience worry about the future which includes anxiety over what one will eat, or how one will be clothed. Such anxiety goes beyond normal concern that motivates one to action and morphs into a cancer of the spirit that eats away at one’s underlying sense of security. Left unchecked anxiety can snowball leaving the troubled heart in a state of dysfunctional panic.


     To some extent everyone deals with anxiety. Afterall, we are not living in heaven. Today we deal with the curse of sin in a fallen world and earn our keep by the sweat of our brow. Storms do come and the threat of sunny skies turning dark and threatening naturally produce apprehension in our spirit.


     How are we to navigate such living conditions? How are we to even think about tomorrow with such threats looming from many different directions? How can our spirit remain calm in the face of potential problems sure to arise as we travel through life? How will basic needs be met and why should I not worry about my future?


     The key passage in the Bible that addresses the broad subject of anxiety is found in Matthew chapter six. The teaching of Jesus in this chapter provides the antidote for a troubled spirit. His teaching on anxiety and worry provides the framework through which we can calm our spirit and find rest for our souls.


     Let’s begin at verse 24 of Matthew chapter six as Jesus addresses this problem:


“24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.


25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?


26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into  barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?


27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?


28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:


29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.


30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?


31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?


32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.


33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.


34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”


     Notice in v25, v27, v28, v31, and v34 our Lord’s reference to worry. The expression “take no thought” is talking about worry. And of course, anxiety is the emotion experienced as one chews on thoughts related to the perception of problems coming against us. Often those perceptions are unfounded as they never materialize in the real world.


   With that said, let’s expand our definition of anxiety. I am quoting from Josh McDowell’s handbook on Youth Counseling in which he provides a helpful quote from Dr. G. Keith Olson on the definition of anxiety. He states:


     “Anxiety can be defined as the experience of unrest, apprehension, dread, or agitated worry. It has been described as a fear in the absence of real danger, or a fear of something that is not clearly understood . . . Anxiety, fear and worry form a complex system of emotions that make clear differentiation between them quite difficult. (Those suffering from anxiety) tend to overestimate the negative or threatening aspects of a situation while drawing attention away from the positive or reassuring aspects.


     The person is left feeling uneasy, concerned, restless, irritable and fidgety. Too much anxiety can produce severe, even crippling, effects.”


     It is normal for anyone, including Christians, to experience moments of anxiety. It is also possible for anyone, including Christians, to find themselves in a season of anxiety. This is exactly why Jesus addresses the issue in Matthew chapter six. He knows we may face any number of circumstances with the potential of gripping our spirit with worry, anxiety, and fear.


     However, his teaching is designed as an antidote for anxiety. Careful attention to his teaching has the power to free the mind and heart from anxiety. We will apply our Lord’s teaching to our personal lives in a moment, but first let’s pause to consider several underlying causes of anxiety.


     Biblical counselors point out the following causes:

  1. Treats
  2. Conflict
  3. Fear
  4. Unmet needs



     Now keep in mind that everyone is different. So, some people are not triggered easily by these causes, while others are triggered very easily by these causes. Furthermore, for some people it will take more than one of these things to be in play before they experience some level of anxiety.


     Let’s consider the potential of “threats” as a cause of anxiety. In his volume Josh McDowell notes: “Anxiety producing threats come from perceived danger, or a threat to one’s feelings of self-worth. For example, anxiety may be caused by rejection or harassment from a peer, in the case of children the possibility of parents divorcing, or any number of real or perceived threats.”


     Keep in mind these causes confront all ages in different ways.


     Next, conflict contributes to anxiety.  For example, a desire both to do something and not to do it. Decisions, especially ones that have clear consequences either way one goes, are a potential source of anxiety.


   Next, fear contributes to anxiety. There are all sorts of fear. Fear of failure, the future, sickness, death, and fear over perceived things. Such fears can build up in one’s mind and create extreme anxiety—often in the absence of any real danger.


   Next, unmet needs contribute to anxiety. Fear over the lack of food, clothing, and security contribute to anxiety.


     I am sure you can identify with these underlying causes of anxiety.    


     Now, as we consider the Biblical perspective on anxiety keep something in mind.
The Bible addresses the problem of unnecessary worry, and it addresses subjects of legitimate concern. The Bible does not teach us to ignore the identifiable problems of life. For example, to ignore danger is foolish. A moment of appropriate anxiety over real potential for harm is normal and necessary.
   However, in Matthew chapter six the Lord is addressing the problem of unnecessary worry. His teaching empowers us to overcome excessive, illegitimate worry. With that said, let’s return to Matthew six.


   Please take careful note of the end of verse 25. Jesus says life is “more than.” With this teaching our Lord is compelling us to hit the “reset button.” We need to maintain a proper perspective on life. If our perspective on life amounts to nothing more than the pursuit of things, then we are setting ourselves up for anxiety.


   The pursuit of material things always creates a batch of anxiety. While the Lord is not teaching us to be haphazard about work and doing what we can to provide for ourselves, we must not allow unrest in our spirit caused by a lack of faith in God.


    We need to recognize pursuit of the necessities of life has the potential of squeezing God out of our thinking. As this occurs one suddenly finds himself alone with his thoughts. In the absence of faith in God one thought leads to another until anxiety is ignited in the heart.


     Jesus’ rebuke in verse 30 contains the antidote for anxiety. We must develop faith in God. The faith we need to calm our troubled heart comes from knowing the Lord in a more intimate way. It is impossible to have a troubled heart when your mind is fixed on the character and goodness of God.


     Look at verses 31 and 32. our heavenly Father knows we have need of these things! Anxiety is fostered by a lack of confidence in the provision of a loving heavenly Father. Lack of confidence in the Lord may be due to age, or in the case of adults, it may be due to the neglect of walking with the Lord. My advice to you if you want a greater measure of the peace of God ruling in your heart is threefold:

  1. Learn to cast your cares on the Lord in personal, heart-felt prayer
  2. Reassure your heart with the promises of God
  3. Allow the Holy Spirit to speak guidance into your circumstances. Listen for his voice and he will show you the way. Let him carry the burden of TOMORROW!!!



Conclusion


     Look again at verses 33 and 34.  Verse 33 is basic to a life free of anxiety.  Seek the Lord first and seek practical righteousness; never allow the experiences of life to deter you from those two priorities.


     As the Father adds what we have need of, he will make us to lie down in green pastures and walk beside still waters! Revisit Psalm 23 and meditate on the truths revealed in those six simple verses. Remember, Jesus says to have faith in God. Like sheep totally dependent upon their shepherd, we must learn to find our rest in him.


    Whenever you find your heart troubled by worry of any kind, it is time to fix your mind and heart on the goodness and faithfulness of God. You can either continue to “chew” on the perceived problems of tomorrow, or you can choose to meditate on the Lord. Why not “chew” on the promises of God? Why not “chew” on the Word of God which reveals the character and faithfulness of our Provider?


     As we learn to rest in the Lord anxiety of heart will subside until our spirit is as calm as a glassy sea. Such an inner life of peace is not a mere dream. It is the possession of those who make the Lord their confidence. It is the possession of those who hide themselves underneath his wings and find rest in his everlasting arms. Amen.
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Protecting Your Children from Moral Confusion

3/5/2023

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   We are now living in unprecedented times in America. Our nation’s freefall into moral confusion is touching every sphere of our culture. As a result, the children of our beloved nation are at great risk. It is imperative godly parents take steps to protect their children from the evil that threatens to engulf them.    

     Over the past few years an explosion of transgender confusion has spread across our land like a giant tsunami. The willingness of those in high places to succumb to the demands of the LGBTQ+ activists has unleased a wave of moral confusion that is threatening the cohesiveness of America as a united people. The so-called “woke” crowd hates America and they are targeting the children of our once strong nation.

     To protect your children, there are two important things that can shield your family from evil in general and “transgender confusion” in particular.

     First, parents must fully embrace the role of protectors and providers. Children are entrusted by the Lord to parents. Parents must step up to the plate and embrace the responsibility of overseeing the well-being of their children.


     Next, as protectors of children, parents must be watchful. Parents generally do a great job providing for the physical protection of their children. This point goes without saying, but parents need to develop a keen eye for the spiritual protection of their children. It is in the power of watchful parents to stop the advances of evil in the life of a child. Like a pastor, watch for any influence that has the potential to harm a child’s spiritual well-being.


     Next, while it is not possible as children grow older to prevent them from crossing paths with evil, it is possible to keep them “innocent” concerning evil. The Bible makes a statement in Romans 16 that applies to all Christians, but it should find an important application to children. The Scripture says:


     “19For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple (innocent) concerning evil. 20And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.”


     How can parents keep their children innocent concerning evil? How can parents prevent their children from learning evil? One thing comes to mind immediately: strive to limit exposure to evil. A child cannot practice what he or she does not learn from wrong influences! Thus, keep them ignorant of evil while you train them to do good.


   Of course, the first line of defense against the influence of evil is the home. Consequently, parents must fight to make their home a haven from the world. Parents should stop evil at the front door of their home! While it may not be possible to control what is going on outside the home, it is possible to keep external evils from entering homelife. Consider the following example.


     Currently, much evil can potentially enter the life of a child via the mobile phone. Easy access to out-of-control social media and pornography is just a few clicks away on the phone. Consequently, parents must establish controls and accountability regarding the use of smart phones.


   Of course, one simple recourse when it comes to a smart phone is to require a child to buy and pay for the use of such phones. Such an approach will limit any unnecessary exposure to evil until a child is able to work and pay for the privilege of a phone.


   The point, however, is for parents to be watchful and alert. This is certainly true as it relates to the onslaught of transgender confusion. Parents absolutely must separate their children from any source of entertainment, education, or other social influences with the potential of introducing this confusion into the hearts and minds of their children.


     Remember this simple statement:  children are to be protected from evil!


     Consider these statements from Scripture to guide your thinking on the matter of protecting your children from evil:
 
3 John 1:11
Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
 
John 17:15
I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
 
2 Thessalonians 3:3
But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.
 
1 Thessalonians 5:22
Abstain from all appearance of evil.
 
   Certainly, if adult believers are to avoid evil, it only follows that children be protected from those same evil influences.
 

   Beyond creating a haven from evil in the security of homelife, parents must aggressively watch for the ungodly influence of adults upon their children outside the home. What adults are interacting with your children outside the home? Who teaches your children? Do those adults fear God? Are they men and women of godly character?


     Unfortunately, one of the most common places for children to be introduced to transgender confusion is in the melting pot of the public school. Public school systems hire teachers who fully participate in the LGBTQ+ movement either as activists who support the moral confusion of the movement, or who actively practice the moral deviancy of the movement, or both.


    Furthermore, confused children who desperately need godly counsel to avoid a lifetime of harm from the LGBTQ+ movement, are not removed from the schools. Rather, they are free to mingle with and influence susceptible peers. Not only that, but the system currently pushes this batch of moral confusion on the whole student body by virtue of compelling acceptance of this behavior as normal!


    It seems every day in the news I hear of some famous family who has a child coming out as “transgender.” The news article goes on to share the family’s acceptance and affirmation of this behavior. Sadly, a growing number of people believe children are born in a state of gender fluidity, and consequently they justify this abhorrent behavior.


   However, every child is born as a male or female. Only through the ungodly influence of the morally confused can a child stray from this basic tenet of life. But they can stray. Children are so impressionable and due to a confluence of contributing factors they can drift into acceptance of transgender confusion.


   Children need to grow up apart from these influences and if that means separating them from the public school system and limiting exposure to social media and the entertainment media, then so be it. We simply must fight the battle for our children! We must put their safety and well-being first above anything else.
 
Conclusion



   I believe the Lord will prosper the diligence of every family who awakens to this threat and makes the decision to separate from evil. Furthermore, I believe dads and moms who obey the straight forward guidance of Scripture to diligently teach the Word of God to their children will see the fruit of their labors. Our labor is not in vain in the Lord!


  I finish these brief thoughts by reminding you of the love and concern our Lord has for children. Jesus always had time for children. He never excluded them from his ministry. Rather, he allowed the little ones to be brought to him and he blessed them.


   Furthermore, he sternly warns against the mistreatment of children with these gripping words:


     “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. 6But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!”  (Matthew 18:3-7).
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