Pilot Knob Lutheran Concern 10/4/2023
We looked at the difference between worry and concern last week and saw that worry is always future oriented about ‘what-ifs’ that do not materialize 85% of the time. Concern on the other hand acknowledges the problem at hand and tries to come up with an action plan where possible. Which one makes more sense to funnel energy into? Farming is one occupation involving many variables out of one’s control. Since we are in the middle of harvest most can relate to all that can possibly go wrong, for example: early September Mike is anticipating harvesting around September 25. However, there is rain in the forecast and while preparing his combine for beans there are parts that need replaced. At night he cannot sleep well because he is worried. What if it is too muddy at the end of the month, what if I break down and cannot get the part for a week, what if the yield is poor due to the drought, what if prices drop, what if my helpers get sick and cannot drive the catch cart; what-if, what- if, what-if! A worried Mike, instead of losing sleep could remember all the harvests he had in the past when conditions were unfavorable; he could sort out all the problems that are out of his control and focus on the job at hand and if any of his worries come true deal with then at that time with an action plan where possible. He could also remind himself that God is with him in the combine, he knows what problems lie ahead and will provide for him to get his crop in, that way Mike does not lose sleep, he’s less irritable and can focus on the day’s challenges not tomorrow’s what-ifs. Is it permissible to be concerned about issues, people, and events? Yes. Can we cry out to God with deep emotion about how we feel? Yes. Read the Psalms and you will see King David did on a regular basis. Worry brings trouble and stomach issues, it looks backward revisiting past failures then looks forward assuming the worst, thus feeding worry. (To be continued) Psalm 4:8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 50:15 Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”
Pr. Bob Snitzer
By the Way:Today: 3:45 Confirmation class. October 8, 9:00 AM Morning worship. Sermon: 1 Samuel 8:1-22 . Give Us A King10:15 Sunday school for all ages. No Sunday school Oct. 22, & 29.Sunday 15, 2-3:30 GriefShare. Please tell others. For more information go to: https://www.griefshare.org/findagroupor contact Pr. Bob or Sue Reese~ Past communiques and sermons can be read and heard on our website: www.pilotknob.org and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PilotKnobLutheran/ Sermons may be heard on KIOW 107.3 FM Sunday mornings at 7:00. Spread the word. If you would like to support this outreach with a contribution, it costs $55 each week.
