Sometimes I get over-concerned about work, my family’s health, and even my to-do lists and lose sight of what really matters. Recently I hurt my shoulder and have not been able to do the activities that I love, and at night I ruminate on how it could affect my future. I can also miss sleep over my children’s temporary crisis or how I should handle a particular situation.
This type of worrying reminds me of the book —“Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff . . . and It’s All Small Stuff.” In the grand scheme of things, all these worries will pass.
Thinking about God’s bigger purposes right-sizes me and is a tremendous burden lifter. My worries only get bigger when I choose to dwell on the small stuff in my life. What helps me is substituting what is temporal with eternal thoughts about God’s greater plan.
The small stuff will always be there, but my choice is how I let it affect me. Some things need to get done —we must make money to live, take care of our bodies and act responsibly. However, I have learned that it is wise to make time for the big things through a daily quiet time of prayer, reading God’s Word, and making godly choices. This creates a balanced perspective on what is essential. Focusing on God’s plan prioritizes those things that will outlast us.
We are just passing through this life, and the best thing we can do is share where true hope is found. 1 Corinthians 13:14 says, “These three things remain faith, hope, and love, and the greatest of these is love.”
Sharing the hope found in the Gospel, being faithful no matter my present circumstances, and prioritizing love are what I am trying to do more of. Not only is this a more peaceful way to live, but these are the things that will last into eternity.
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