This week I’ve been prepping for the start of school: buying school supplies, sorting out clothes that no longer fit, buying new clothes that do, and trying to come to terms with the fact that my son will drive himself to school this year. I’m mourning the end of carpool convos. Anybody else with me?
I’ve also been deep at work planning for Vision Day with my team next week and let me tell you – I can feel your prayers! God has been so gracious to bring clarity and direction as I think through potential ministry offerings for next year. Thank you so much for praying for us!
Okay, on to what I want to share with you today.
Let’s take a deep breath together and talk about something we all face from time to time: anxiety. We’ll explore both a tangible tip to recognize it and a beautiful Biblical truth to soothe our hearts. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Your Tangible Tip for Battling Anxiety
Recognizing anxiety can be as simple as noticing your breath. Shallow? Quick? Slow? Our breath can be a signal, a trigger if you will, alerting us to anxiety creeping in. Here’s a tip to practice:
Set a reminder on your phone to check in with your breath a few times a day.
When you notice a pattern of shallow or quick breaths, take a moment to center yourself. You might take five intentionally deep breaths, say a prayer, read a favorite Psalm, or simply sit and be still for a moment.
Yes, it sounds easy, but it’s a powerful tool. Check in with your breath often and notice what shows up. Over time, you’ll start to notice your own patterns of ease and unease, which will allow you to take action on anxiety before it takes over you.
Biblical Truth for Battling Anxiety
Remember the beautiful hymn, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow”? I used to play it for my son when he was a baby, wanting him to feel loved, protected, and valued. Just like that comforting song, God’s Word can trigger feelings of peace and reassurance in our hearts. It reminds us that we are sons and daughters of a King who loves us, protects us, cares for us, and values us. It settles our heart when fear, worry, and anxiety want to take root.
When my heart is restless and drawn towards anxiety, I love to turn to Matthew 6:25-34. Here’s my favorite verse from that passage:
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”
Matthew 6:26
Our Heavenly Father cares for the birds of the air, so how much more valuable are we to Him? Beloved, your life has value. Say it with me: Your life has value. The same God who cares for the sparrows cares for you. When anxiety starts creeping, let this truth trigger a calming in your soul.
Be gentle with yourself and remember how very valuable you are to the Creator of the universe. He does not want you to live with an anxious heart. Lean on His love and find peace.
I am rooting for you, always.
