“I went to the doctor, and he told me I am suffering from anxiety.” These words from my friend reverberated on the other end of the phone, and this individual is not alone. Anxiety now climbs to its own pandemic proportion. And, the outbreak does not limit itself to one age group or gender.
Moms struggle to coordinate bizarre school schedules; families attempt to manage internet access; the news warns of impending doom; and the elderly—failing to thrive—suffer in isolated silence.
Yet, we hear whispers of hope from The Ancient Wisdom.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be make known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Are there any among us who do not long for such respite?
In reading the prayerful words written by Scotty Smith*, I sensed a place for them in our considerations today. May this rich resource minister to you right where you are.
A Prayer of Desperation for Peace
Dear Jesus,
I’ve memorized this Scripture, taught it, preached it, and prayed it for many struggling friends. Today, however, I’m desperate to lay hold of it for myself. I am anxious, so I need grace to obey this command. I know you’re not asking me to pretend and pose, for knowing you is the end to that way of life. And I know you’re no asking me to be a stoic, for you are gentle and humble of heart.
Jesus, it was you who turned the chaos of an unformed world into the beauty of creation. Please do the same with all the chaos swirling around me and in me. Replace my angst and confusion with order and beauty.
For the things that grieve me, bring your tear-wiping hand. For the things that offend me, keep me from a critical and selfish spirit. For the things that alarm me, grant me the perspective of heaven and gospel sanity. Please don let me get bitter.
For the things over which I have no control, give me a fresh vision of the occupied throne of heaven. For the things I do have control over, grant me wisdom and strength to act accordingly. Please help me steward my anger, my sadness, and my weariness to your glory. I don’t want to waste this moment or these feelings.
Jesus, I have no reason to doubt either your mercy or your might. You gave your life for us upon the cross. You have risen to make all things new. You are unremittingly advocating and praying for us. No one loves us more that you do. I have seen you do astonishing things before. Do astonishing things again. I am weary and worn down.
Set the peace of God as a sentinel in my heart and mind. Great King of glory and grace, guard and protect my heart from the lies of Satan, the whisperings of gossip, amid the cynicism of naysayers. I pray with hunger and hope, in your most trustworthy name. Amen.
Living With Eternal Intentionality®
What is your greatest source of anxiety?
How can you gain traction, one day at a time, to be set free from this menacing Anxiety Pandemic?
*Everyday Prayers, 365 Days to a Gospel-Centered Faith Written by Scotty Smith Published by Baker Books
