Worry can be a deadly thing to our spirit - but it doesn't need to be.

Greg Laurie, pastor and founder of the California and Hawaii Harvest Churches, addresses the concept of worry in our world. Despite the overwhelming amounts of anxiety and fear that plague many today, there is hope found in Christ for conquering our concerns.

Worry can follow everything in life; it is not contained in times of sadness or depression.

"When things are going well, we worry about how long it will be until they start going badly again," says Laurie. 

God has a simple word of encouragement to face these worries, shares the pastor, referencing Matthew 6:34 (NLT): "Today's trouble is enough for today."

But how to combat this worry in a practical way? Laurie compares it to the process of taking out the garbage.

"When we find ourselves filled with anxiety, worry, and stress, we need to take out the trash. The trash is picked up once a week at our house, and I'm glad about that. In the same way, we need to give our worries to Jesus Christ. The Bible says, 'Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you,' (1 Peter 5:7)."

Laurie explains that this act "signifies a definite act of the will." We must choose to stop worrying and "instead let God assume the responsibility for our welfare."

"You don't empty your trash once a month," the pastor continues. "You do it weekly and sometimes even daily. It's the same with our worries. Sometimes we have to keep coming back to the Lord again and again. Some days we have to bring it to Him more often than other days, depending on what we're facing in a given moment."

With worry creeping into our thoughts and affecting our actions, Laurie makes an important observation, reminding us that we are not in this emotional battle alone: "God cares for you. He is mindful of you. ... He wants to take your cares. He wants to take your worries and anxieties."

Luke 12:32 refers to this when Jesus says, "Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."

Laurie points out three important roles of God from this verse: God is our shepherd, our Father, and our King.

"God is in control of our lives, and nothing catches Him by surprise. He knew it was coming. And if something is a concern to you, then it's also a concern to Him," explains Laurie.

He also emphasizes the lack of accidents in the life of a Christian: "We believe that God is in control.

"When it seems as though your world is coming apart, God is aware of it. And remember, you're not alone in your suffering. Others have experienced something very similar, if not the same thing. Others are currently going through it. And others will go through it in the future."

Laurie recommends spending time with friends who are fellow believers. "We should never isolate ourselves and disconnect from other believers. When we're not around those who can help us, we can get into a funk," he says.

"If we're suffering with something and then find someone else who has suffered with the same thing, or maybe something even worse, it's very helpful to talk with them. This is where community comes in. It's where the church family comes in. It's also the reason we shouldn't try to be solo Christians."

"We need our Christian friends."

Importantly, Laurie stresses the importance of focusing your attention on Christ in times of worry and anxiety.

"If you're dealing with depression, anxiety and fear, take your eyes off yourself and put them on God. And remember this: You are not alone. Despite your circumstances or certain challenges you may be facing, despite everything in life that you're dealing with, God is still in control. So give all your worries to Him," says Laurie.

"God is near, and He will be with us if we call out to Him. He reminds us in Isaiah 41:10, 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, yes, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'"