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

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares for you.

I Peter 5:7

These are wonderful scriptures that hold so much promise for those who come to Jesus. So much wisdom and freedom is tucked away in these principles.

And yet for anyone who has ever struggled with anxiety – it just isn’t that easy.

Last night, Dave and I were discussing anxiety and what it feels like. He asked, “Doesn’t the person just see that it isn’t the normal response to life (i.e. isolating myself)?” I tried to give examples that might help him understand what it feels like. I don’t know that I did an adequate job.

I am not a mental health professional, but I know that overcoming anxiety is challenging, it takes a lot of effort, and in most cases, it requires someone to walk with you.

The first step in moving forward is admitting you have a problem. Anxiety is a debilitating life disrupter that prevents me from living life to my fullest potential.

Do you struggle with anxiety? Ask Jesus to give you a safe place to share. Be honest. Share the struggle. Ask for help.

Do you have someone in your life who struggles with anxiety? If so, be the safe place to share. Listen well. Avoid judgement. Love them.

I want to tell you there is hope! I am a living, breathing example of HOPE!