Years ago JB had a book entitled Getting Things Done, by David Allen. At the time he shared the main idea with me, but neither of us pursued it. Now I’ve rediscovered that book and am a major fan. In it, the author argues that you should never dwell on the same thought twice unless you really like that thought. Allen’s basic premise is that to “work” most effectively (whether in a job or in everyday life) we must do a brain dump and transfer everything to a trusted, organized paper or digital system that will remind us of the things we need to do. Freed of the memory burden (and accompanying stress), our minds are released to think creatively. The goal is peace.
This system seems to hit the mark–except for one critical aspect. Even if we organize and schedule every item on our lists, our lives still include fearful situations over which we have no control, potentially robbing us of peace. For those things (and actually for every area in which we need wisdom) the answer is prayer!
The apostle Paul possessed no manila file folders or online productivity software, but he offered solid advice on how to attain peace. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7).
I put this into practice just the other night. I woke up and started worrying about someone. Suddenly a thought interrupted me: “I am deciding to worry.” I realized that I had a choice at that moment–to worry or to pray. I decided instead to pray. Immediately God reminded me of something Jesus did in Scripture and I knew He wanted to similarly release my friend. So I let God know my request, thanking Him for this revelation, and soon that burden of worry lifted–because God showed me how to pray! His Word says, This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us (I John 5:14). I could rest because I knew God heard my prayer.
Whether I find myself worrying in the nighttime or during the day, I am choosing how to use that time. My boss may determine my physical use of time during working hours, but I control how I use my mind. Worry can slip in regardless of the circumstances. Because God recognized this as a human struggle, He filled His Word with verses and stories that encourage us to pray and trust Him. In fact, the Bible is a giant revelation of God’s faithfulness!
Letting go of our fears and trusting God in prayer is the key. I’m still learning this lesson daily, but even in my own life I can point to God’s faithfulness over and over again. Why should I worry? Luke 12:25 sums it up best: And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life’s span?
Thank you for these helpful points, Carrie. For those of us with a tendency to ruminate on problems, reminding us to pray and read God’s word is the perfect way to “short circuit” all kinds of negative thoughts.