Peace in Myeart

Anxiety is defined as a feeling of distress, unease, apprehension, and worry due to future uncertainty or something with an uncertain outcome.  We live in a world that’s in a constant state of distress, it sometimes seems the divisiveness in our country is growing every day and  there is opportunity for anxiety around every corner.  As a person that will take the news of the day and lean right into worry, I can feel overwhelmed, with knots in my stomach, tension in my shoulders,  and a clench in my teeth. So what do I do?  Am I powerless in my battle with anxiety? Thankfully, no.

“…do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4: 6-7 (ESV)

This verse is an invitation to check my heart. Instead of being anxious or fearful about  present circumstances,  I should lift my eyes and perspective to the one who is ultimately in control.  

I read  that Paul didn’t write in Philippians 4 that when we pray God will magically fix things. Instead, he wrote that God’s peace would flood our hearts and minds, an impossible level of calm will surround our emotions and our thoughts. When our minds and hearts are in a state of  anxiety, God’s peace supersedes it. 

So now, when I see the chaos around us, I will pray to set my mind on the things above and come to God with my worries.   I need to understand what is in my control and exert my authority over that and give the rest over to God. This isn’t easy, I have become quite possessive with my worries.  However, I know giving everything to God, everyday, will give my heart peace. 

  God also says it so clearly in Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

 

My prayer:

Dear Father,  I let the troubles of the world consume me.  I know I have no control over much of the chaos happening and to spend time worrying does no good.  I also know that when I pray for the release of my anxiety, it will come.  So why don’t I do it?  I must turn to you everyday, sometimes more than once in a day.  You put peace in my heart and relief in my soul.  I know You are in ultimate control so  let me rest and trust in You.

 In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Becky Burns