--I Peter 5:7(NLT)
The root of worry is irrational fear; and if we are not mindful it will control our thoughts. When we are experiencing chronic states of worry, stress, anxiety, doom, and dread--laden with catastrophic thoughts, every aspect of our being is effected. We all know that none of the aforementioned emotional states are good for us. Prolonged fear, anxiety, and worry weathers the body; blood pressure, insulin levels, organs, and even our bones are impacted by our emotional state.
We were not created to sustain such modes of thinking. God our Creator, in his infinite wisdom and relentless love, has given us what we need to traverse what is negative, unpleasant, and distressing. We have been called to conquer and overcome--not relinquish and live in defeat.
Here are a few points for consideration:
- Practice mindfulness
- Recognize when fear is seeking inroads into your psyche. Notice when you are catastrophizing and STOP. Do not give away your power and authority. You have been given victory over fear.
- Refute and Reframe
- We refute catastrophic thinking and worry with the word of God. His word is alive and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). Our psyche is designed to respond to the word of God. When we speak his word over a situation, faith is ignited and hope hits our hearts.
- Reframe with the word of God. For example, "This present way of thinking does not line up with God's word. Romans 8:28 is my promise that God causes all things in my life to work together for good. Doom does not fit into this equation."
- Accept
- Life is full of challenges, obstacles, difficulties, and hardships. However, we have been given the divine ability to cope and not be consumed.
Father, in the name of Jesus, we pray for those who may be struggling with worry that is rooted in fear. We pray that this would be a day of new beginnings in which your truths are at the forefront of hearts. Reverse the effects of worry on the body--restore organs to sound functioning, regulate blood pressure and insulin levels, strengthen and rebuild bones, heal stomachs and gastrointestinal tracks. We pray for those who are challenged with stomach ailments and digestive disorders that are the result of stress and worry. Thank you that you are Jehovah Rophe--the Lord God who heals. Thank you for victory and triumph--we receive it now in Jesus' name. Amen and so be it according to your word.