The Unread Email

Ethan checked his phone for the tenth time in five minutes. The email notification still hadn’t come. Sitting at his desk in a small marketing firm in Quezon City, he tried to focus on the spreadsheet in front of him, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the same question: What if they didn’t like my proposal? The interview for the promotion had gone well—at least, he thought it had. But now the silence felt loud. Every vibration from a nearby phone made his heart jump, even when it wasn’t his.

By the time Ethan got home, his worry had followed him like a shadow. He replayed the interview in his mind, criticizing every answer. I should’ve explained that part better. I shouldn’t have hesitated. During dinner, his wife noticed he was quiet. “You’re worrying again, aren’t you?” she asked gently. Ethan nodded. Later that night, he opened his laptop, refreshing his inbox again and again. Sleep came late, and even then, it was restless.

The next morning, the email finally arrived. The company thanked him for applying but explained they had chosen another candidate. Ethan felt the familiar mix of disappointment and exhaustion. But as he sat there, he realized something uncomfortable: the worry he carried yesterday hadn’t changed the outcome at all. It had only stolen his peace.

Spiritual Connection
Worry convinces us that constant mental rehearsal can control the future. In reality, it only drains the strength God gives us for today. Jesus reminds us that our Father already knows what we need before we ask. Trust doesn’t deny disappointment, but it refuses to let fear dominate the heart.

Key Verse
“Which of you by worrying can add one cubit unto his stature?” – Matthew 6:27