It’s hard not to feel anxious right now given the state of the world. It can be anxiety about the health of loved ones, the status of our jobs, the political climate, racial tensions, virtual and in-person schooling, and so much more. However, despite all of that St. Paul gives us words of reassurance in this Sunday’s second reading:
Have no anxiety at all, but in everything by prayer and petition,
Phil 4:6-7
with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.Â
Then the peace of God that surpasses all understandingÂ
will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
We know that regardless of how worrisome a situation seems, a Christian is grateful that God is involved in it. However, that is easier said than done.
To me, It’s really about how I handle handle anxiety. An important part of St. Paul’s letter is that we have to make our requests known to God saying, “Lord, I need you.” (Check out the song by Matt Maher)
When me make those requests known, we give that anxiety to God and bring him into play. It’s ok to be anxious on what tomorrow will bring, but we must trust in God and are thankful to him for his presence in our lives. No matter how anxious I get about my workload, getting everything done, being a good father and husband, I try to remain peaceful because God always finds a way to strengthen me.
So the next time you feel the pressure building from all of the stress and anxiety in your life, reach out to God and bring him into the situation with gratitude and thanksgiving.
