I’m not normally a fearful person or a worrier. Doing anything new causes a certain amount of uncertainty in me, and I suffer some angst when I don’t know what the future holds, but no more than I believe most people feel.

But because of my recent surgery, my body isn’t as reliable as it normally is. I tire quickly and sometimes can’t do things I could normally do with little thought or effort. And this brings on a certain amount of fear  – or call it worry. I worry about being able to do something I committed to do next week. What if I just can’t do it? People are counting on me. I worry about my level of exhaustion and my emotional state. I’m afraid I won’t be able to be hospitable like I want to be. And how long will it take until I’m back to normal?

And then there’s the big picture – there are some doors that I’m hoping the Lord will open for me, some opportunities I’m pursuing. What if they don’t happen? If the answers are “no” or “wait”, what will I do? And how will I react in my disappointment? There goes my testimony of all God has done and worked in me. I will prove to be the failure that I always fear I am! How can God work through someone so weak, so fallible?

So I’m writing this just for me today. I need to remind myself what God has to say about feeling worried or anxious. But maybe you’re also facing some tough or frustrating situations that are taking up too many of your thoughts and causing you to worry. If so, let’s remember what God’s Word says.

The first verse that comes to my mind is Philippians 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

We’re told to change our mindset: from being anxious about the situation to moving our focus to God. We move our eyes from the problem to the problem-solver. We’re told to give thanks, make petition and pray to Him about it. We are to thank Him that He is able to solve the problem and to bring His good purposes to pass.

The verse that follows (Philippians 4:7) promises His peace. We’re told His peace will guard our hearts and minds. Peace is the antithesis of worry, peace is one of the fruits of God’s Holy Spirit alive and active in us.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, Psalm 46:2

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Lord, I ask you to give me peace and protect my mind in the situations I’m facing. Would you solve the problems I face with Your power and according to Your will? Help me to trust You and believe that You are still in control of all things and still doing Your work in me.

Forgive me for doubting and help my unbelief!