“Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7 NKJ).
This verse contains a play on words: your care becomes God’s care. Reading in the original language helps add a dimension not always evident in the English version. The words “care” and “cares” in this verse happen to be two entirely different words. Looking closely at their meanings makes this promise even more precious to us.
In the Greek text, this word translated care is merimna (mer’-im-nah). It is a noun which has to do with anxiety, stress, distraction, preoccupation with insecurity, or worry. It suggests the kind of thoughts that trouble us and keep us from peace of mind.
Jesus used this word when He said to His disciples: “…take no (anxious) thought for your life…” (Matt. 6:25). This is a reminder that time spent in anxiety could be better invested in Bible reading, prayer, praising the Lord, and waiting upon Him for direction.
The second word translated cares is melo (mel’o), a verb meaning “to be concerned about or interested in.” God is aware of you. He is interested in you. You can cast all your worries, anxieties, and insecurities upon Him because your well-being matters to Him.
Don’t carry around any unnecessary burdens; the Lord invites you to shift them onto Him. He has a 2000-year head start on you when it comes to burden-bearing. He can be trusted. Give Him your cares; He cares!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.