Worry Is Distracting
by Charles R. Swindoll
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known to God.
Philippians 4:6
Anxious.
Intriguing word. It literally means "to be divided" or "distracted." . . .
We find a perfect illustration of this in the story of Mary and Martha recorded in Luke 10:38–42.
Taking a minute to look into their little abode, we find that Martha is distracted,anxious. Jesus is sitting down talking, and Mary is sitting at His feet, enjoying His presence, . . . and His teachings.
But not Martha. She is busy back in the kitchen getting everything ready for a big meal. In good womanly fashion she is making everything match, everything fit, everything come out of the oven at just the right time. . . .
But Jesus wanted her to come and sit down beside her sister and listen. It wasn't that He didn't appreciate her efforts. He just wanted her to serve a simple dish so they could make the most of their time together. . . .
Her anxiety was distracting her from more important things. Worry always does that.
Used with permission. All rights reserved.
Listen to today's broadcast of Insight for Living with Chuck Swindoll at OnePlace.com.
Visit the Bible-teaching ministry of Chuck Swindoll at www.insight.org.
