The Power of Considering Over Anxiety

“And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?  And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” (Matthew 6:27-29, ESV)

In our culture today, researchers find that anxiety is increasing among Americans adults. In my personal experience, much of the anxiety I feel has its roots in my thinking.

Have you ever replayed a conversation or gone over different scenarios in your mind (the “what if’s”), projecting negative outcomes into the future? Ruminating, or repeatedly going over something in your mind, can lead to increased anxiety. 

I recently learned something interesting about ruminating. The verb ruminate comes from the Latin name for the first stomach compartment of animals such as cows and sheep, called the rumen. You know, the animals that chew their cud. Cud is actually the partially digested food the animal regurgitates from the rumen for another chew.  Kind of gross.

But when we go over something in our minds, in an endless loop, or chew over something again and again in a negative way, it can be just as gross.

God’s Word teaches us to consider and meditate, not ruminate.

In Matthew 6:28, Jesus teaches his disciples about anxiety, saying, “Do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?”

Instead of being anxious, Jesus tells us to “Consider the lilies of the field…”(Matthew 6:28).

What does it mean to consider something? The Greek word used in this passage, katamanthano, means "to examine carefully" and "to learn thoroughly."

I recently discovered the strong connection between considering, meditating, and lowering anxiety from Dr. Lee Warren’s Self-Brain Surgery Podcast.

You can find more information at this link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-lee-warren-podcast/id863481502

When we consider the lilies, we pause to notice something God created and genuinely reflect on it. We get out of our heads, open our hearts and minds, and experience awe. What can spark awe? A blooming flower, a vibrant sunset, a child at play--the list is endless!

 When we experience awe, the part of our brains that worries and gets overwhelmed is quieted.  Awe activates the right side of the brain and reduces cortisol, which then lowers inflammation in the body.

It's incredible how God literally provides us with tools to help our brains fight anxiety!

As Spring rolls in, we have the opportunity to see new life springing up and to notice little signs of God’s splendor.

If possible, go out for a walk and enjoy the beauty around you.

This week, join me in going on an “awe” hunt! Create a file of “awe” photos on your phone for a reminder.

I would love to hear about what you find! Please comment or email me. Happy hunting, friend!

“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.” Psalm 77:11-12, ESV