THURSDAY October 3, 2024

How to Deal With Worry and Anxiety

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.
Philippians 4:6-7

Paul took time to explain to the Philippians the secret of a worry-free life. He did not give way to worry––concern yes, but not constant worry. Instead, he trusted in the Lord. Paul directed them to not only trust the Lord, but to remain in constant prayer with thanksgiving, then they would experience victory over worry and anxiety.

In the Greek language, the words anxious or careful mean “to be pulled into different directions.” Anxiety can pull a person in all kinds of different directions––as if pulling them apart from limb to limb. Worry, little by little, can strangle the very life from a person. It plagues them with anxiety as they succumb to their mixed emotions.

Are you pulled in different directions emotionally because of worry and anxiety? I know that we are living in difficult times; inflation is at an all-time high. People are worried about their rent or car payments, their job, children, or spouse. Some people worry so much it affects them physically. They lose their hair, or they are constantly biting their nails.

Worry and anxiety are thieves that steal your joy and peace. Seriously, these negative, twin emotions will affect your thinking. A worried mind cannot think clearly to make wise decisions. Additionally, put into practice thankfulness. A thankful heart will change your perspective. Focus on your blessings, and pray about your problems.

Consider the words of Jesus: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:34). Do not let worry control your life.

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.
~Isaiah 26:3~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!