(Photo by Selma Komisky)

No Worries

By Kailyn

What’s up, Marked Ministry Teens! Have you ever taken a test or tried out for a sports team? Afterwards, were you so nervous to know what grade you got or if you made the team? I know I have been. I was surprised to hear about the high percentage of tweens and teens who struggle with worry and anxiety. They’re not just stressed about their grades or whether or not they made the team, but about much bigger things going on in their lives.

When the new year comes, most of us make resolutions to improve our lives. I’m going to be working on decluttering worries from my life. I always worry about my grades––if I studied enough or if I know the material. Also, when I tried out for my school’s volleyball team, I stressed so much about whether or not I would make the team. To be honest, I didn’t want to look at the list of people who made the team, so worried that I hadn’t made it. Fortunately, I did make it, but that is beside the point. I was so worried and anxious about my performance in my grades and tryouts, that I was oblivious to everything else going on around me. I am trying not to worry too much about my performance for people. I don’t have to worry about performing for God either, because God will unconditionally love me no matter what I do. God’s love and acceptance of me isn’t based on my performance.

What does the bible say about worry? For people who worry about the future, Jesus says in Matthew 6:34, “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” For those who worry about their reputation or their appearance, in Matthew 6:27 He says, “Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?” If you just worry about everything, Philippians 4:6-7 says, “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 understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The more you get to know God’s love for you, the more peace you have that surpasses all understanding. He will take all of your worries if you entrust them to Him.

Here is what you need to do: (or “Here are somethings you can do:”)

• Ask God to increase your faith.
• Pray for God’s wisdom and follow His will for your life.
• Seek advice from others who trust God.
• Take the pressure off yourself.