Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:6-7
For a long time, Philippians 4:6-7 remained one of my favorite bible verses. I remember scribbling a part of it on a bible devotional I had gifted to a friend whom I was trying to win over for Christ.
The bible verse was a reminder for me, that there was a way out of worrying and anxiety; it reminded me that I had another choice.
As someone who is often anxious, I can definitely relate to the unease that comes with worrying about what the future may bring or the one hundred different ways a situation can go from bad to worse. I’ve had times when I would literarily think about worst-case scenarios and cry out of fear that it could indeed happen.
Anxiety is not God’s will for us; it only robs us of the rest and peace that God desires for us.
So what to do next time when you are filled with worry and anxiety?
- Bear in mind that your worrying does not add any positive value to you – In Matthew 6:27, Jesus asks the epic rhetorical question “Can anyone of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
- Pray about it – Whatever is your source of worry, be it your finances, your marriage, a child who constantly makes you panic, pray about it. Prayer helps to shift focus from the object of worry and unto Christ, the author, and finisher of your faith. Pour out your heart to God about your fears and worries. Pray with great faith believing that God hears you. Believe that he will ease your burdened heart and give you peace.
- Take a trip down memory lane: Remind yourself about all the ways God has come through for you in the past. If he did it before, he’ll surely do it again.
- Thank God for all that you have now: Learn to live in the moment and enjoy the now rather than worrying so much about the future. (Matthew 6:34)
- Meditate on the word of God over and over again: Reading, hearing and meditating on the word of God will help you grow your faith (Romans 10:17)
- Practice being still: quiet the thoughts in your head and just breathe.
- And remember that even if something bad happens; you serve a God who can take what the enemy meant for evil and use it for your eternal good!
A prayer for overcoming Anxiety and Worry
Dear God,
I come before You to lay my panic and anxiety at Your feet. When I’m crushed by my fears and worries, remind me of Your power and Your grace. Fill me with Your peace as I trust in You and You alone. I know I can’t beat this on my own, but I also know that I have You, Lord, and You have already paid the ultimate price to carry my burdens.
For this I thank you, Amen.— Unknown
