Weekly Devotional: Do Not Worry About Tomorrow

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” — Matthew 6:34, NIV

Every one of us has probably struggled with worry at one point or another to at least a certain extent. For some of us, worries may be constantly on our minds. After all, it may seem there is so much to be worried about.

Whether it is the stories we hear on the news or circumstances in our personal lives, we can be worried and even fearful about what tomorrow holds. However, as Christians we do not have to be afraid of the future because we know God has a plan no matter the circumstances or how we feel. Amid our worries, we can choose to embrace trust and God’s promises for us.

Do Not Be Dismayed

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10, NIV

God does not want us to live in fear or be overcome with worry. In fact, we are told to be quite the opposite. God wants us to have strength and peace in the midst of our situation.

From concerns about money, relationships and health, these areas can bombard us. However, even when we do not have control in life, we know the One who does. We can trust Him with each new day.

God's plans for us are greater than we can imagine, or ever plan for ourselves. Psalm 33:11 says, “But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” Although it is not as easy as it sounds, we do not have to be worried about the future because we know God is good and His plans are firm.

Preparing for the Future

“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” — Proverbs 6:6-8, NIV

In Matthew 6:34, we are told not to worry about tomorrow and the troubles it holds. However, this does not mean we should not prepare for the future. In Proverbs 6, Solomon references the ant and the way it stores in the summer and gathers during harvest season. This an example of how we, too, should be ready and prepared when we can for what lies ahead.

Worrying about the future can consume our thoughts and bring us unrest even when we are unable to control our situation. Worrying does not even add a single hour onto our lives (Luke 12:25). Preparing for the future is a wise choice and can even reduce our concern, provided it does not distract us from God’s will. If we are using preparation in the place of trusting God, then our efforts can work against us. It is best to prepare in concert with God's will.

Praying for the Future

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” — Romans 8:26, NIV

If we are struggling with worries about the future, we can always go to God in prayer. He is there for us and to hear our struggles. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our requests to God rather than worry.

Whether we are worried about the future of the world, our country, our friends and family or ourselves we can bring these things to God. Our peace is not found in the outlook of things around us but rather in Christ alone.

Grand Canyon University doesn’t want you to be anxious about tomorrow or your education. GCU holds to a Christian identity and mission and offers theology and ministry degree programs where you can learn more about God’s Word. For more information, click on the Request Info button at the top of your screen.