Monday, February 17, 2014

Breaking the Worry Cycle


One of my tasks involves answering the phone and directing callers to the appropriate person. In order to connect them to someone else, I must dial an extension and disconnect them from me. Sometimes the caller keeps dialing my extension for one reason or another. Until I find someone to take responsibility for helping them, I must either take a message or come up with a solution.

At times, worry forms a connection with me. It resists my efforts to break the cycle. It keeps coming back, whispering what-if's in my ear. Now, as a writer, part of my equipment is asking what-if questions, but that can get twisted and turned against me. No one can stop this endless circle but me. It's my responsibility. Here's how I deal with worry:

1.  I've memorized scriptures that deal with fear and worry. Isaiah 41:10, 2 Timothy 1:7, and others are part of my arsenal.

2.  How do I apply these verses? In prayer, I thank God that He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. I thank Him that He is with me and will help and strengthen me.

3.  It's all about replacing thinking contrary to the truth of God's Word.

This short circuits the connection with a non-productive emotion. It may try to come back, but as I apply these principles, it finally gives up. I'd much rather be connected with the peace and joy that comes from trusting the One, who holds my life in His hands.

Writers and Readers:  How do you fight worry?


7 comments:

dandelionfleur said...

I usually go for a hike or jog or get go do some physical activity, and while my body is busy, I talk to God. Like you, I remember His promises--who He is.

Jean Fischer said...

I try to learn from the past, live in the moment, and let God have the future. I find that pushing away worrisome thoughts by concentrating on my blessings helps a lot, too.

Have a great week, Susan!
Jean

Karen Lange said...

I fight worry in the same manner. I like to "change the subject" in my mind and replace it with the word of God and positive thoughts.

quietspirit said...

Susan: I also rely on scripture, Isaiah 41:10 was my verse of the year at one time. I have quoted Psalm 118:24 in order to get me to moving in the morning. I also remember reading that fear is the exact opposite of faith.

Diane Estrella said...

I like your analogy. Either we have to disconnect from it in some way or it will keep coming back. God's word is always best. Hugs to you!

Marja Verschoor-Meijers said...

I fight worry with the word as well, quoting scriptures, assuring myself that worry is the enemy of faith. I am doing a blog series on worries at the moment... and as I study the subject, it becomes more and more clear that Jesus did NOT endorse worry :)

JD said...

Hi, Susan:

Fighting worry can be a daunting task. I try to regain perspective, but sometimes the worry seems to overpower me. That's when I try a change of scenery. I go out for a walk or a drive.

If that doesn't work, I call a friend and either talk it out or, if the issue has been talked to death, I discuss everything but the worrisome event.

One of the above methods tends to tame the beast of worry for me.

BTW, 2 Timothy 1:7 is my general go-to verse. Good choice! Be well.