So we can say with confidence, “The LORD is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” Hebrews 13:6 NLT
Since worry is a fact of life, what can we do about it as we grow in our trust and confidence?
Here are a few suggestions that have helped me and many others over the years, in no specific order. Develop a strategy that works for you – and then work it.
Recognize the signs of worry and decide to take charge at the start. Even welcome those around you to tell you when they notice signs of worry or stress. Don’t be defensive, but address what they notice.
Identity what worries you. It can be helpful to write it down. Sorting it out puts it into proper size. Like confronting a bully changes the dynamics in an abusive relationship, confronting ambiguous worries makes them realistic and less powerful.
Pray, don’t panic. Take your specific anxiety and turn it into a prayer. Ask God for help, guidance, and peace about this very specific concern.
After prayer, CAST your burden on the Lord, remembering how much He cares for you. Intentionally, forcefully give your burden to the Lord, believing He is working on it right now. Every time the worry starts to resurface, remind yourself that it is in God’s hands, and you refuse to snatch it back.
Focus on truth. Philippians 4:8 guides us to focus our minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. Focus on good things and speak good things over your situation and the people involved.
Actively redirect your thoughts from the problems to God's goodness and promises. Like Peter, look at Jesus instead of the storm.
Make a gratitude list. Celebrate the reasons for thanksgiving, not the thing that prompts worry. Thank God and people for where you are. Remember what God has done before. Gratitude is the healthiest human emotion, and it will make a significant difference in your outlook.
Live in the present. Let go of yesterday's regrets and tomorrow's fears. They are a fertile breeding ground for worry. Live in the present, knowing the past is forgiven and when you get to the future God will already be there. The present moment is what is most important, and Jesus will never leave you. He is here in this very moment.
Have a worry accountability partner. Tell them your concern and your decision to trust. Request them to check in with you to see how you are doing. Their encouragement will help you stack and celebrate your wins over worry.
- God is a faithful and loving Father. He would never tell you to do something that was out of reach for you. He has told you to refuse to live in fear and worry, so that means you can win. Step up, have faith, and beat the worry habit.