When I am filled with cares, your comfort brings me joy. But the LORD is my refuge; my God is the rock of my protection. Psalms 94:19,22 CSB

“Cares” in our verse for today is the same as worries. Things that we care about, we tend to worry about. Worry is allowing your mind to think about troubles or things that might happen. Worry also can make us fearful or anxious.

What kinds of things do you worry about? School, homework, tests, friends, your parents? Worry doesn’t really help you. Worry doesn’t get your homework done or help you on a test. Worry doesn’t solve a problem you have. Worry does not help you. It just takes up your time and makes you upset.

For example, let’s say you are worried that you will mess up giving your oral report tomorrow at school. You are trying to go to sleep, but your mind keeps thinking about your report tomorrow. You think, what if I forget part of it? What if the teacher doesn’t like it? What if the other kids laugh? What if…and it just keeps going with more and more what ifs. Before long you’re scared and upset. And you can’t sleep.

So, how do we stop worrying? We take our cares and our worries, and we give them to God. Our verse tells us that God is our refuge, our safe place, and that he is our rock and our protection.  Jesus actually tells us, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28 David advises us, “Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you.” Psalms 55:22a Paul suggests, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6

So, back to our example. This time when you first start worrying about your report, stop and take a deep breath. Instead of worrying, talk to God. Tell God about your report. Thank Him for taking care of you and giving you comfort. And ask Him to take away your worry and give you rest. Sweet dreams!

This week when you find yourself worrying, stop and talk to God. Give Him your worries and cares and find comfort and joy.

Blessings as you give your cares to God!