Worry Turned Into Prayer

Paul writes from prison, so his advice about anxiety is not naive. He does not say to feel nothing; he says to bring everything to God with thanksgiving. The pattern is simple: instead of rehearsing a worry in your head, turn it into a request and say it to God. The promise that follows is a peace that goes beyond understanding and stands guard over heart and mind, like a sentry at a gate. Peace here does not mean the problem vanishes first. Today, write your three biggest worries in a short list. Beside each one, write a sentence of prayer and one thing you are thankful for in the same area. Read it aloud to God. If anxiety is constant or overwhelming, please also reach out to a doctor, counselor or pastor; that is wisdom, not weakness.