I know Jesus told us not to worry about the future, and I wish I could obey that, but our company is laying off people right and left and I can't help but worry. Sometimes I wonder if Jesus was being realistic, but on the other hand, I wish I could stop worrying. Any advice? — J.F.

You've probably already discovered that just telling yourself to stop worrying probably doesn't do much good. In fact, if you are like most people, the harder you try to stop worrying the more you'll probably keep on worrying!

Jesus points us instead to a different way to deal with worry—and that is to learn to commit our problems to God and trust Him for all our needs. He told His disciples, "Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them" (Matthew 6:25, 32). In other words, God knows all about your situation, and you can trust Him for the future because He loves you and knows what is best for you.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't plan for the future or take whatever steps you can to deal with the possible loss of your job. But it does mean you shouldn't be tied up in knots emotionally and mentally, constantly worrying about what might happen. Inside, commit your future—and your whole life—to Jesus Christ, and ask Him to help you trust it into His hands.

The Bible says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7). Let these words be your guide every day.