Have you ever wondered what the difference is between anxiety and worry?
The definition of worry is focusing our attention on certain problems or situations.
Anxiety, on the other hand, is a feeling of fear and unease.
What these two words have in common is that they rob us of our peace.
And you might ask, what does it mean to have peace?
The definition of peace is a state of well-being, tranquility, and harmony.
This feeling is the opposite of what anxiety and worry bring us.
But how can we feel peace when things aren’t going well?
In Philippians 4:6-7, the Apostle Paul tells us: “Do not be anxious about anything; instead, in every situation, with prayer and petition, present your requests to God and give thanks. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
When thoughts of worry start to invade our minds, let’s hand over to God what’s troubling us. Let’s present to God what is stealing our peace. One of the things that I love is writing my worries to God in my journal. I really enjoy the peace I feel when I take a notebook, my bag of pens, crayons, and markers, and light a candle while I write. I write to God. I like to start with: “Dear Father God”, because I know He has called me His Daughter and I know He is attentive to what worries and affects me. This simple act makes me feel very special. Over time, when I go back to those pages in my journal, I can see that He always listens and helps me. Sometimes, I go back and note the date when that specific thought of worry or anxiety was answered. That way, I can see His footprints in my journal.
I encourage you to incorporate this habit into your life. Many times, we find it hard to talk to God. That’s why, when we write down our thoughts, they come to light, and we can see them written out, which helps us connect with Him through our faith.
There’s no need for embellished words or perfect grammar; just start. Then write what’s in your heart. Share your internal battles, your doubts, and your fears. Ask God to guide you and give you wisdom. But most importantly, express your gratitude. There’s always something to be thankful for. Gratitude changes our way of thinking and living.
According to studies, keeping a journal can help improve our emotional and mental health, lower our stress levels, and help us communicate better with those around us. This simple act of writing your worries and anxieties to God can help you hand over what harms you and feel His perfect peace.
It’s also important to have your Bible with you. I like to underline and add dates that make me feel like God is speaking directly to me in that moment. I encourage you to do the same!
Finally, I want to share this lovely verse with you: Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
From dear friend E. G.
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