Romans 8: 15

"For you have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received the Spirit of adoption..."

Lately I have felt very anxious and have had continuous what-if thoughts plague my mind. I have had thoughts such as, "God, how am I ever going to make it through my summer classes?" and, "What if I can't please all of my teachers, co-workers and family?" I have also had thoughts like, "OK, God, I know you have shown me this, now what do I need to do with my life? What if I make the wrong choice? What is the next step I need to take?"

I think there are times in everyone's life where it seems so hard to get past the feeling of apprehension, worry and fearfulness. Fear takes us to a deep place within that no one else can see. It abuses our mind, steals our hope, strips our joy and leaves us feeling worn, empty and alone. But God doesn't want us to live this way. Last night as I was reading my devotional, it mentioned Phillipians 4:6-7...

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

I have quoted this scripture in the past when I have felt worried. It helped reassure me that I could talk to God about my problems, and then rest by letting His peace rule in my heart. This would make me feel better for a moment, but shortly my fears would creep back into my mind when the business of the world led my thoughts astray from God and His promising words.

But my devotional talked about how many of us often forget the two words, "with thanksgiving." Sometimes we forget to thank God during our time of struggle. We get so focused on our problems that we forget to praise and thank the one who has promised to guard our heart and mind.

Being thankful during worrisome times may sound like a difficult task, but I have found when I put forth the effort to continuously thank God during hard times, it keeps my mind in a peaceful place.

It also helps me to remember who He is. When I chose to follow God, I became His. And when I became His, He gave me power. He gave me power over my fears.

Instead of worrying if/how God will protect and provide for you, thank Him in advance for being your provider! Thank him for all he has already done in your life! Thank Him for all He is: worthy, gracious, powerful, patient and true! Only in that time of thankfulness and praise will you be able to experience greater peace.