Published April 13, 2025

by Andy Berges

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In Matthew 6:34, Jesus advises his disciples, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

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For most of us, this is much easier said than done. With bills constantly due, health concerns, and a host of other issues to be worry about, it’s challenging for most of us to neutralize anxious thoughts. However, excessive worrying can negatively impact our mental, emotional, and physical health.

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When we are idle or not being productive, our tendency to worry increases. As the saying goes, “An idle mind and hands are the Devil’s workshop and tools.” A prime example of this is how worry often creeps into our thoughts when we lie in bed at night before going to sleep and again when we wake in the morning.​

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One effect way to combat worrisome thoughts is to pray before going to sleep and to pray again the moment we wake up, because it is impossible for one to pray and worry simultaneously. 

 

When we wake up in the morning, we should get out of bed and immediately spring into action rather than allowing thoughts of worry to occupy our minds. As Dale Carnegie wisely stated, “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage.”

 

We often worry about future worst-case scenarios that only exist in our imaginations. These scenarios rarely come to pass and can prevent us from enjoying the present moment.  

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Jesus addressed this in Matthew 6:25-27 when he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life. Look at the birds of the air, they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life.”

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While occasional anxious feelings about the future are normal, worrying excessively can have detrimental effects on one’s mental, emotional, and physical health. So, whenever worrisome thoughts become overwhelming, pray and continually keep Philippians 4:6-7 in mind…

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“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”