* WORRYING ..

Dear Diary,

'Philippians 4:6 cautions us not to be "anxious about anything . . . ," in other words not to worry. But how many times in our daily lives do we find ourselves worrying about a host of things including finances, our children or the future? There is an old Chinese proverb: "Why worry about how to cross the river if you have not even arrived at the shore yet?"

Anxiety is said to be undefined fear. When we find ourselves worrying or being anxious, it is very important to clarify what we are afraid of. Tell the Lord about it, leave it with Him and then act upon His truth. Do not live according to the feelings that accompany worry or anxiety.

How good it is to know that we can pray (talk to God) and not worry (exercising faith), realizing that we are praying to a God - our God - who is all-sufficient!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7)'.

"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" (Matthew 6:27).

N. MARTINEZ

- Am learning that crucial perspective in life and admit it's not always easy to put into practice. I often thank the Lord for renewing His patience of me. Philippians is my favourite book of the Bible. It's about joy that can be experienced in circumstances that are challenging.k.