I thought of the worst-case scenarios in my racing thoughts through each anxiety attack. I often prayed for peace and to live another day in those moments.
Anxiety is hard. We often think of the worst-case scenarios, and anything but our racing thoughts seems impossible. Sometimes, trembling panic releases during stressful situations. Other times, it's a daily, usual occurrence. How many of us go through life with this hindrance? This world doesn't promise a life without worry.
Luckily, I have a nugget of peace for today: it's okay to worry, but we don't have to face our fears alone.
Typically, I'm the worrier, the to-do list maker, and I ponder every hypothetical situation. Even in joy and celebration, I cling to the "what ifs" as I silently debate the pros and cons. While I'm improving at analyzing my every move, anxiety still gets the best of me when I go outside my comfort zone.
As I frantically got ready for an event, I did everything. I packed bags, checked car tires, and peeked through my bedroom window one last time before hitting the road. The weather was changing hourly, and although I had high hopes, I couldn't shake the sinking pit in my stomach. I knew the trip would be challenging sailing. Within 30 minutes, my husband and I drove through the first of many downpour storms. On and off, through hyperventilation and countless prayers, I prayed for dry roads and sunshine while fearing the worst. There's nothing like low visibility and wobbly semi-trucks at every angle to ignite fear and cling to Jesus.
Despite the south's windy roads and roller coaster hills (almost getting lost to top off our adventure), we finally arrived at our destination. Funny enough, I dropped and shattered a glass water bottle before leaving the next day. And you better believe tiny sharp pieces scattered near my tires. The same tires I meticulously checked beforehand because, again, anxiety. I felt as though God was simultaneously laughing at my plans while faithfully guiding me through every fear I had.
In my worst-case scenario weekend plans, I felt His strong, peaceful presence.
Perhaps you're going through a storm of your own. Whether you're overwhelmed or afraid of what's to come, feelings of dread don't last forever.
How do we breathe when we feel like the end is near? How do we see the light when we feel trapped by darkness?
Anxiety in life is inevitable, but the first step is to wrap our hearts around God's promises:
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalm 23:1-3 (ESV)
Although circumstances and emotions arise, Christ is also with us daily. He cares for us while providing the ultimate protection. Like this Bible verse states, He calms and restores. When feeling nervousness and uncertainty, we can rest in His goodness.
In 2018, panic followed me to the grocery store. A culmination of lifestyle habits and my surroundings got the best of me. Dizziness —A brewing migraine occurred, and I felt impaired. Little did I know this experience would be the first of many. Physical ailments provoked new levels of anxiety at the worst-case scenario times. Just as another shot of adrenaline hit my veins, I prayed to God and begged, "Please help me, please save me."
So, how can we let God be our fuel source when adrenaline takes over?
It took me a long time to practice, but trust will set you free. We may be sitting in the driver's seat, but Christ steers the wheel— whether we firmly hold on or not, He's there propelling us forward. Trust Him while flustered and unprepared; He won't leave us astray.
Anxiety may be challenging, but finding contentment after worry is possible. The next time you feel fear, envision the Lord's hands resting on yours. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and imagine His perfect imagery, like in Psalm 23:1-3. Give yourself time, space, and grace until fleeting feelings ease.