Work, health, money, relationships, the state of the world: there is plenty to worry about, and much of it is outside our control. Anxiety often comes from trying to secure a future we can’t see.
A different kind of peace
Jesus spoke to his friends on the night before he died, knowing what was coming for all of them:
Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.
John 14:27
He didn’t promise them that everything would be fine. He promised them himself.
One day at a time
Jesus also spoke about worry in very practical terms:
Therefore don’t be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day’s own evil is sufficient.
Matthew 6:34
This isn’t a command to stop caring about the future. It is an invitation to live in today, with God, rather than in a dozen imagined tomorrows.
Bringing worries to God
Paul wrote to Christians who had plenty to be anxious about:
In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition 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 thoughts in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6–7
Prayer isn’t a technique for making anxiety disappear. It is handing your worries to someone who cares, again and again, and finding that you are not holding them alone.
Anxiety can also be a health condition, and it is treatable. If it is affecting your daily life, talk to your GP or contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. And if you would like to talk about faith and peace, we are here.
