Do you struggle with anxiety? Many people do! Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or uneasiness, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. It's important to distinguish between concern and anxiety.

While it's normal to feel concerned from time to time, concern can motivate us to act and pursue positive changes; anxiety is the opposite. Anxiety is often negative and counterproductive, causing us to dwell on the past instead of looking ahead. Concern encourages us to trust in God and seek His purpose and plan, while anxiety often leaves us paralyzed.

Friends, it's not God's desire for us to be controlled by our worries. While He may allow difficulties to deepen our faith and help us change negative habits or attitudes, He doesn't want us to live in anxiety. The choice always lies with us.

We will be confronted by unsettling events, and experiencing emotional reactions is a normal response. However, as God's children, we shouldn't remain in that state. Instead of succumbing to anxiety, the healthy response is to pray. "Lord, I lay my problems at Your feet, show me how to respond! Reveal Your love, wisdom, and power."

Prayer and petition are pathways to peace and freedom from anxiety. While prayer may not always change the situation, it will change us. So, pray, and then leave it at God's feet!

Grace and Peace — Fr. Greg