Life Lesson 41: I’m learning that being anxious is often a result of not fully trusting God. Whenever I feel like I don’t have control over a particular situation, I sometimes worry about what I can or can’t do, and that’s when I’m reminded not to worry about anything but instead pray about everything!

^“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 NIV).

Anchor for the Soul

This is one of my life verses. It has been an anchor for my soul during some of the most challenging times in my life. However, I admit that I have sometimes neglected to recall it because I may allow a situation to overwhelm me. But thank God for His extraordinary grace that reminds me that nothing that happens to me surprises Him.

With all the unsettling events and circumstances happening all around us, it is no wonder that so many of us struggle with anxiety today. The demands and distractions of this life are enough to make us restless and force us into a state of worry. Chronic anxiety can have adverse effects on our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It can affect how we think and act, impact our decision-making, and diminish our enjoyment of life.

I find that if I’m not careful, anxiety can easily creep into my life. Recently, I had an unexpected situation happen, and immediately, I could feel the pressure coming because I didn’t have control of the problem. Thank God, He reminded me not to be anxious about it but to pray about it. Trust, faith, and surrendering to the Lord help me take a breath, calm down, and focus on the One who controls all things.

Hold on to God’s Peace

The Bible tells us that when Pharaoh and his army pursued the Israelites in the desert as they departed Egypt, their leader Moses spoke to the people, saying, “Do not be afraid. Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:13-14 NKJV). I’m learning to hold my peace in the storm because the Scripture assures us that when we put our trust in God, especially during discouraging times, we will experience His peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard our hearts and minds as we live in Christ Jesus(Philippians 4:7). Turning to the Lord in times of worry, fear, or anxiety will help us cultivate a mindset of calmness and resilience that can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life.

Gratitude Always

Although it seems counterintuitive to give thanks amid anxiety, that’s precisely what the Bible teaches. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV), we are told that “in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” If the situation is bad, it doesn’t mean you are thankful for the wrong that happened to you. It means that despite it, you are grateful that the sovereign God of the universe controls whatever you are facing.

Hold Fast

It’s also important to note that everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique and should not be taken lightly. What works for one person may not work for another. However, when we put our hope in God alone, He is faithful to be with us and guide us through the difficulty. Remember, prayer, request, and thanksgiving to Him contribute to a life of peace and contentment.

“Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strengths.”

—C.H. Spurgeon

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