Don’t Worry About A Thing

Alright, true confessions. I’m not a “fan” of Bob Marley, but there are words of wisdom in some of the lyrics of his songs.

For example, lately I’ve caught myself singing this catchy tune when I start to have a little angst about something going on:

“Don't worry, about a thing, 'Cause every little thing, gonna be alright,  

Singin', don't worry about a thing, 'Cause every little thing, gonna be alright.”

             - Bob Marley

It can be easy to grumble and complain when things aren’t going our way. We bang our toe getting out of bed, the coffee cup overflows, traffic is backed up going to work and we start worrying we’ll be late for our meeting – and that’s all before 9:00 am!

If we follow Jesus, we don’t need to grumble or complain when things don’t always go smoothly! It’s much easier to meditate on God’s Word and then praise Him!  Paul tells us in Philippians 4:8:

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things!

- Philippians 4:8

Which brings me to Psalm 103, our reading for today! David begins by telling himself:

“Praise the Lord, O my soul….”

Three times during the Psalm David tells himself to sing! He even takes it one step further and says:

“ALL my inmost being praise the Lord!”

In verses 1-6, David gives all kinds of reasons to praise God rather than complain or worry. God forgives sins, heals diseases, redeems us from the pit, and shows love and compassion to us. He satisfies our desires with good – not bad – things and He works righteousness for the oppressed!  

Stop and take a few minutes right now to think about all God has done for you today! Thank Him for His goodness to you!

David then looks at the attributes of God as He revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 33-34. In verses 7-18, he remembers them and praises Him. He lists compassion, graciousness, slow to anger, and abounding in love!  

During this week, list all the things God has revealed about Himself to you and thank Him for how He cares for you!

Friends, some days it is easy to be like David, sing songs of praise and worship to God. Other days may be a struggle. Today, take a few minutes to read through Psalm 103. And then I have an action step for you: Put a rubber band around your wrist. Every time you start to worry or complain, switch it to the other wrist. (You might want to ask your family to help because sometimes we aren’t very self-aware. Just sayin’!)

As you go about your day today with kids screaming in the background, traffic jams and work stress, fix your mind on what matters! Things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable! But most of all praiseworthy!

And then hum along with me, “Don’t worry about a thing!”

Pastor Pam

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