Worry

OPENING THOUGHT

In his book, Thinking Fast and Slow, psychologist Daniel Kahneman discusses the “Focusing Illusions,” which he defines in a single sentence: “Nothing in life is as important as you think it is when you are thinking about it.” Put this theory to the test by thinking about some of your past worries. Is Kahneman right?

Worry is a problem! Everyone struggles with it. God has the solution!

EXPLORING THE TEXT

Matthew 6:25-34

• How many times does Jesus say, “Don’t worry”?

• “Anxious” comes from merimnao, which literally means “to have a divided mind.”  What does this tell you about the person who worries?

• Is it wrong for Christians to be concerned or to make plans for the future?

• What kind of worry is sinful, according to the Lord?

• What solutions does Jesus give to the problem of worry?

Philippians 4:6-7

• Applying the definition of worry you developed from the last reading to Paul’s command, should we be anxious about anything?

• Does Paul’s command apply to medical conditions? (e.g., chemical imbalances, clinical depression).

• What’s Paul’s solution to worry?

• How does gratitude help free you from unnecessary anxieties?

1 Peter 5:5-7

• What does it mean to be humble?

• How can pride contribute to worry? (see also Isaiah 51:12-13).

• When does Peter say we will be exalted? Does God always answer our prayers on our time line?

• Why is it possible for us to cast our anxieties on God?