In a previous post (“What, Me Worry?”), I wrote that worry stems from misplaced priorities. Well, how do I get my priorities to line up with God’s? Or what if I feel my priorities are appropriate (centered around love), but I’m still worried?

“Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬, CSB‬‬)

There are many (hundreds) of verses in the Bible that urge God’s children not to fear and not to worry, but this verse comes with the recipe for what to do instead.

I’ve read that when I have a habit I want to break, the best thing to do is to replace that habit with something else, something positive, healthy, and desirable. This verse advises the same thing. To break the habit of worry, I should replace it with prayer, petition, and thanksgiving.

I have a habit of worrying about travel. I’m sure I will forget to pack something, or my ride to the airport will go awry, and I’ll miss my flight. Whatever. It’s a useless fear, and I’m certain it does not line up with God’s will for me to waste my time and energy worrying about such things. And yet I get stressed out when travel looms.

Every time I start to worry about a trip, I should stop whatever I’m doing and start praying. First, I can thank God that I am able to take the trip, that He will be with me wherever I go, and that He will provide for me and protect me whether I am home or far away from my comfort zone. Once I have thanked Him, I should explain to Him what I’m worried about.

Then, God has a promise:

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭7,‬ ‭CSB‬‬)

What a relief!

If my worry returns, I start praying again to renew my peace. Eventually, maybe I will break my worry habit and start trusting God.

Dear God,

Please forgive me for my worrying. I know you don’t want that for me. I just like to feel in control. Help me to turn to you instead. Remind me that you are in control, not me. Thank you for your love and your promise of peace when I trust you.