But How?

   We are often encouraged not to FEAR, and to TRUST God in all situations. But it's easy to say, "DON'T WORRY" and "TRUST GOD," and "DON'T DOUBT."  Just saying these things doesn't suddenly make us be able to live them out.  We are rarely told how to go about achieving these declarations. 

   Here a few tips that I've learned to help me in this area:

1. when I wake up, and before I go to bed, I inundate myself with Scriptures such as these:

"I have it all planned out-plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for" (Jeremiah 29:10c-MSG)

"Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure everything out on your own" (Proverbs 3:5 MSG)

"...that trusting me, you will be unshakeable and assured, deeply at peace..." (John 16:31c MSG)

"God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves"

(1John 3:18c MSG).  Filling mind with scriptures such as these and more help me to recalibrate and adjust my focus.

2. I journal and  constantly remind myself of the times in my past when I was going through a challenging situation;and looking back on it, I saw how God worked things out, and got me through it.  Taking time to remember, gives me hope for my present and future. 

3. I write at least 3 things I'm thankful for each day.  Taking time to notice the positive things that are happening in my life helps me to stay optimistic and encouraged.

   I try to start and end my day with these daily reminders.  As I inundate myself with this information

 it helps me to "NOT DOUBT" God's presence and help and to "TRUST" that I will get through challenging times and situations.  As I exercise these practices I see myself being better able to "WORRY NOT."