I hope you are doing well. In this week’s episode of Overflow, we learn about embracing concern and rejecting worry. In this chapter, Louie teaches us how to reject control and fear while accounting for planning, preparation, and concern.
Practical Steps to Plan Well
- Do what is in your hands to do today. (Colossians 3:23)
- Don’t pick up any not-yet-realized challenges until necessary. (Matthew 6:34)
- Recognize that the Master is returning and stay prepared. Luke (12:42-43)
So, how do we plan without tipping over into worry?
This is the big question. This is where we put these practical steps into place.
1. Do what is in your hands to do today.
Often, when our brains are overwhelmed with worry, it is because we are trying to figure out all of the details of something that is far off into the future. We are concerned over details that are irrelevant at the time. According to Psychology Today, 91% of the things that we are worried about never materialize. So, instead of focusing on all of the details, ask yourself this question.
What can I do with what is in my hands today?
Make a list and come up with a plan. Then, start working on your plan.
2. Don’t pick up any not-yet-realized challenges until necessary.
Anytime I receive a request, it is not uncommon for my brain to start running through a long list of reasons why this will be a disaster. So maybe a disaster is a bit of a stretch, but my brain assesses the situation to identify threats or opportunities. Depending on what season I am in, it might create a list of reasons for me to either find a way out or avoid the situation. It goes hand-in-hand with trying to figure out the irrelevant details.
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Matthew 6:34 NLT
If your brain is operating in this way, there is a good chance you are bearing the weight of what Louie calls “not-yet-realized challenges.” Isn’t it reasonable to prepare? Yes, it is reasonable to prepare for things in the future, but this goes back to number one.
If you are doing what is in your hands to do today, then you should embrace the wisdom found in Matthew 6:34.
3. Recognize that the Master is returning and stay prepared.
God has blessed each of us with gifts and abilities to use for His glory and for the benefit of others. Louie says, “God puts things into your hands according to your ability and His power to work in and through you.” Matthew 13 tells us that Jesus will return. God has entrusted us with something valuable–the King’s things (Luke 12:42-43).
This is not a reason to fear. It’s just a heads-up.
We must prepare, plan, and stay ready. The King will return, and we all want to hear the words found in Matthew 25:23, “…Well done, my good and faithful servant…”
Reflection
- What has God placed in your hands today? Take some time to thank God for what He has graciously given to you.
- Identify a time in your life when your planning turned into worry. Looking back, was there a tipping point you can recognize now?
- Read James 4:13-17. How can you cultivate a spirit of “if it is the Lord’s will” (v. 15)?
- If you were to stop overthinking your plans, what would that free you up to do more of today?
After answering these questions, I encourage you to share your answers with someone in your community.
