Worry and stress unchecked gives birth to feelings of anxiety. We all experience some level of anxiety: work situations, acceptance at a party, enough money to pay the bills, do my classmates like me, does my spouse really love me, am I safe in this COVID-19 pandemic and will we survive the economy uncertainty. These are only a few of the areas that may be causing us to worry - which potentially brings about anxiety. All of us, children and adults alike, are in need of somewhere where we feel safe and secure. I believe the bottom line is very personal. WE MUST INCLUDE GOD IN OUR LIFE.
Paul, in Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (NKJV)
I believe the following will help us deal with the uncertainties we face which cause us to worry, which in turn develops into feelings of anxiety:
Faith in God: A faith in God and His involvement is our lives provides a sense of security that nothing can take the place of. Trust Him. He will walk with you every step of the way through your struggles.
Prayer: When you feel anxious talk to God about it. He will help you determine the source of your anxiety and assure you that He is with you.
Plan: Ask God to show you what to do. He will give you wisdom and strength to do what you need to do which will help control the feelings of anxiety. God says in Philippians 4:19 that he will “…supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Act: He will then give you opportunity to do something about it. Right action reduces stress which in turn reduces anxiety.
Live Responsibly: Live a life of caring concern for oneself and for others. Philippians 4:13 tells us that we…” can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (us).”
Lord God, I need a breaking from the worries and anxieties of life. I need your peace. Help me to live responsibly and place my cares upon you. I surrender my cares, my worries, my anxieties to You right now. Please guard my heart and mind right now and give me Your peace. In Jesus name, amen.