Life feels unpredictable, especially nowadays. Between global chaos, health challenges, and everyday struggles, uncertainty is everywhere you look. As someone who battles anxiety, I get that it’s overwhelming. Philippians 4:6 gives me hope in its wise words: “Do not be anxious about anything… present your requests to God.” Jesus offers peace, especially now.

Anxiety in Uncertain Times

The 21st century feels like it’s in a constant state of flux. Economic booms and busts leave many people anxious about job security and the rising cost of living. Technological advances concern us about privacy and job displacement. The widening political divide makes us untrusting of government institutions.

Anxiety can be overwhelming, leaving us feeling alone and isolated. It manifests as racing thoughts, worries, and impending doom. Concentrating, enjoying daily activities, and maintaining relationships make it difficult. 

It’s essential to remember that anxiety is common. We tend to worry, trying to control outcomes, forgetting to let go and let God. We must let faith be a source of comfort, not conflict. It’s an immense opportunity in the search for meaning and stability.

Philippians 4:6—A Call to Trust and Prayer

Philippians 4:6 feels like a tall order when anxiety kicks in. “Do not be anxious about anything” sounds impossible sometimes. It’s not about ignoring your concerns; it’s about trusting in God to do the heavy lifting. Hope springs eternal.

“By prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,” reminds us to take our worries to God (an act of surrender). Shift your focus from fear to faith. Adding gratitude changes everything.  

“Present your requests to God” invites us to lay it all out to Him. There’s no worry too large or too small to share. He’s always there for us, waiting for His children to look to their Father.

My Personal Journey – Passing Exams Without Accommodations

I remember a time when I was overwhelmed about my future career as a teacher. I was studying at George Washington University, known for its high standards and challenging curriculum. I quit my job to pursue teaching, going from the safety of accounting to the unknown of the classroom. What was I thinking?

I was worried…would I succeed? The worry transformed into anxiety. Anxiety to panic. What would happen if I failed the standardized tests to become a certified teacher?

My neurodivergent brain did not handle timed tests well…to say the least. I failed almost every multiple-choice test in undergraduate school. I earned my bachelor‘s degree because essay tests became more popular in the 1990s. Too bad I ran out of time, earning B’s instead of A’s. I knew the content; I just didn’t have the time to finish. Pencils down! 😪

Studying transition special education, I knew that my disability allowed me accommodations on timed tests. I was afraid to let my teachers and peers know I needed help. Would they hire a teacher with a disability? I wasn’t going to find out. Like many people with “invisible disabilities,” I suffered in silence.

Finally, I turned to my Brother. Praying didn’t fix the situation instantly, but it gave me peace, knowing God was with me. Handing my fear to Jesus made all the difference. I passed most, but not all of the certification exams without accommodations. With time, I realized that I needed support. 

Did God give me the courage to ask for help? Yes, 20 years later. 

Another story…

Embracing Peace Through Faith

Life’s storms can feel overwhelming. Jesus, our Changeless Friend, offers a peace that nothing else can. While He doesn’t promise to remove every challenge, He walks us through every single one. We should trust Him, going beyond anything we can understand. God’s peace is available to anyone who comes to Him, one day at a time.

The path is easy. Take small steps by surrendering your worries to Jesus. Start by giving Him one thing that’s weighing you down. Pray about it, release it, and trust Him to handle it. Letting go allows you to feel the freedom that comes with faith. 

No matter how big the storm is, Jesus is bigger. 

He’s got your back!