The verse above is an invitation from Almighty God to release ALL of our cares to Him, rather than trying to carry them ourselves. Sometimes we withhold certain concerns from the Lord because we don't want to stop trying to figure them out ourselves. But in doing so, we shut the door to His loving grace that wants to provide us with a custom-made solution to our problem.

Here's something for us to give some serious thought to. We can worry ourselves sick over what might happen if the worst-case scenario for our problem comes to pass. And if our fears are realized, we will have to face them feeling ill, weary, and worn out - instead of having a clear sense of direction.

The Lord longs to carry our cares for us because "He cares about [us] with deepest affection, and watches over [us] very carefully." He knows that when we try to handle our concerns ourselves, it can damage our health, ruin our relationships, and cause us to make poor decisions that have far-reaching consequences.

When we are facing a problem, we can give it over to God by praying something like this: "Lord, I place this matter in Your very capable hands, and I ask You to not only give me the desires of my heart in this situation, but to do "exceedingly abundantly" above all I ask or imagine!" (Psalm 37:4; Ephesians 3:20 NKJV)

Today, cast ALL your cares on the Lord - and position yourself to receive His absolute best!

Prayer: Lord, please remind me often that You long to be my burden bearer. (Psalm 68:19 NIV) When I am tempted to hang on to my worries and cares, convict me by Your Spirit, and help me to let go of my concerns once and for all. Help me to position myself to receive the custom-made solutions to my problems that are Your best for me. Thank You that as I commit ALL of my cares and anxieties to You, You will cause every problem to work for my good and Your glory!