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Key Bible Verse: You can lie down without fear and enjoy pleasant dreams (Proverbs 3:24). Bonus Reading: Proverbs 3:25–26

Each year, Mark goes through agony before his annual review. He pictures his boss giving him a poor report or even putting him on notice. This hasn't happened in the five previous yearly reviews. A conscientious worker, Mark should expect commendation. Instead, he anticipates criticism.

Years ago Vincent's wife, Karen, had a brief infatuation with one of his friends. Fortunately, she soon saw what was happening and put an end to it. But Vincent can't forget. He still tortures himself with thoughts of other men his wife might be attracted to. Nothing could be further from Karen's mind, but Vincent's irrational jealousy is eating away at their marriage.

Jack, a pilot, will soon turn 60. Until recently, he was looking forward to his retirement. But in the past few months, imagining life without the excitement of flight schedules and the bustle of airports is bringing on periods of depression. "What's happening to me?" Jack asked a psychologist. "I dread retirement. Am I going crazy?"

All three need to acknowledge that their very real fears are feeding off of imaginary dangers.

—Lloyd Ogilvie in Facing the Future Without Fear

My Response: I'll ask the Lord to make my imagination a channel of His vision, not a breeding place for fear.

Thought to Apply: Worry is like a rocking chair; it gives you something to do, but doesn't get you anywhere. —Reggie White (former football defense player)

Adapted from Facing the Future Without Fear (Servant, 1999, 2002) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Dear Father, teach me to hand off my worries to You, realizing that I'm secure in Your care.

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