Stop worrying about what others think

As a child, my mother told me that if people were not putting clothes on my back, food on my table or a roof over my head, then I shouldn't worry about what people had to say. I was listening to Marvin Sapp’s song, “Praise Him Advance,” this morning, and it made me think about that little pearl of wisdom. That was the best piece of advice I was ever given. Thanks Mom.

I have come to realize that I spend too much time worrying about all of the wrong things, like what others will think. I tend to hold things in that should be addressed and it ends up creating tension and stress that in turn affects my health. This week, I have been very cranky. Stuff started getting to me. I was more irritated with people than I usually am. The little things set me off — a sure sign of stress. That is all because I haven't set boundaries or I just don't enforce the ones I have set up.

Dr. Tony Evans, senior pastor of the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, in his daily radio address, “The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans,” has been preaching a series about freedom — freedom from anxiety, freedom from debt and freedom from fear. It has been very helpful to learn what God’s word is on the subject of how Christians should deal with worry and the things that are the source of those worries.

Those sermons came right on time. I also needed to be reminded of Mom's advice. She didn't mean it to say that I should be cavalier when it comes to others, their views or their feelings. I just can't run my life based on them, especially when it is not in my best interest.

I am still learning and growing.

I responded to the tension this week by doing something for myself. I started cleaning my bathroom and put up new shower curtains and rugs — and it is starting to take shape. I never would have believed that housework could be relaxing. I don't mean the act itself, I mean the feeling you get when chaos turns into order. When you begin to see the fruits of your labor come to light. That sense of accomplishment is sometimes enough to put a smile on your face and to get you motivated to make other changes.

Here is a link to Marvin Sapp’s live performance of “Praise Him Advance.”

The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans