No Worries

16 Apr No Worries

Anyone who has ever visited Jamaica is familiar with the phrase “no worries mon.” From the moment you arrive on the island until you depart, you are reminded that you are in a worry-free zone. You soak in the sun, stare into the perfect blue of the Caribbean Sea and fall into a trance of tranquility, serenaded by the sounds of Bob Marley singing “Don’t Worry Bout a Thing.”

In our daily lives we all desire this state of peace but in the midst of real world challenges we get caught up in the constant cycle of worry, anxiety and fear and somehow a constant state of happiness, joy and contentment eludes us. Our emotional health is so critical to our well-being but can sometimes be the most difficult to manage.  This spring as we continue on the theme of renewal, let’s focus on a few tips for emotional renewal.

1. Let it Go – There are things from our past that we replay over and over again in our heads. It may have been something that happened twenty years ago or something that happened last week. Regardless, we need to bring it to closure and let it go. It is so difficult to move ahead in our purpose when we are carrying the heavy baggage of unforgiveness, unresolved anger or shame.
2. Keep Calm and Carry On – I am sure you have seen the many “Keep Calm and Carry On” t-shirts and posters. The phrase actually comes from a British poster that was created in preparation for the Second World War as a morale booster for the country. In 2000, a copy was rediscovered at a bookstore and has since been spoofed and used repeatedly on multiple products and memes. Despite the overuse and misuse of the phrase today, the original message still stands true…just stay calm and go on with life. In Philippians 4:6 it says “be anxious for nothing.” That is easier said than done, but the verse goes on to say “but in every situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” In other words, there is nothing that should cause us undue anxiety because we should be taking all of our concerns to God. So, in this season of renewal, lay all of your burdens on Him, stay calm and trust that He really wants you to experience “peace that transcends all understanding (Philippians 4:7).”
3. Don’t Worry, Be Happy – What else is there to say? Happiness is a choice that we make each and everyday. Jesus asks the question “can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” The answer to that is obviously “no” so instead of spending our precious time worrying, why not be happy? In the midst of an anxious, fearful world, let’s strive to stand out as beacons of peace and happiness.