Getting Past Anxiety and Worry

“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) Growing up in my little community, I lived with a lot of anxiety. It seemed that I was worried about everything. I’d fret over things at school, things at home, and almost every aspect of life. One of the ways that I dealt with my anxiety was trying to control situations I faced. That approach didn’t work very well, but that was the only way I knew of. Even after I gave my heart to the Lord, it was still a difficult area. When I got married, the control issue was a problem. The fear and uncertainty of growing up in a home where alcohol was center stage really impacted my outlook on life. As I grew in the Lord, I began to understand that I could leave everything in God’s hands! I didn’t have to worry about things or try to control my life situations. First Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (NIV) It’s been a learning process, but it’s so good to know that God cares about every detail of our lives! Dear God, thank You that when I become anxious and worried about things in life, I can always come to You. You are faithful and just and You’ve shown me that I can leave my burdens and cares with You. Thank You that I don’t have to carry them on my own! Amen. – Milly Jackson   Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website. Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org