It sometimes feels like our thoughts are on a mental roller coaster and we experience being up one day and down on the next. Not knowing which feeling will be there in the morning, whether it’s waking up to anxiety or peace?
Anxiety comes from fear of something that may happen in the future, the present, or from a traumatic past experience. It can affect people physically and mentally to the point of feeling helpless.
When I start dwelling on all that is bothering me, I set myself up for a downer day filled with anxiety. If these thoughts dominate my mind for too long, it’s really difficult to dig my way out of the rut!
It’s helpful to refer to the scriptures. One of them in particular is about Paul hiding from jealous King Saul who wanted to take his life:
Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me. He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me—God sends forth his love and his faithfulness.
Psalm 57:1-3 (NIV).
Paul was having his life threatened, but it didn’t cause him to lose faith that God was protecting him. He didn’t allow his circumstances to take over his thoughts that lead to fear and anxiety.
We must continually remind ourselves that God is there for us all the time. When doubts about circumstances and anxiety sneaks in, remember that Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He absolutely helps to overcome the roller coaster of life and emotions. Telling Him about our problems and confess that we need help because He understands. He walked the earth in human form and experienced all the daily roller coasters that we all feel.
Before going to sleep at night, do you pray for His peace and reassurance? Visualizing His loving arms are there carrying us helps to have a more restful sleep. We’re better equipped to do what he has planned for the next day because God is in control of our thoughts, not fear which is not of God.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)
While reading scripture, the most important thing is to believe what the message says and meditate on it. Learning to change my thought patterns have really helped. Now when I wake up in the morning it’s much easier to go from being stressed to remembering that God is in control of my life. I wake up thanking Him for the peace only He can provide. What a great way to start each day with confidence that I don’t have to give in to stress.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 (NIV).
His strength lives in us and we’re better prepared to take on the ups and downs of everyday living. We can never doubt the promises of God’s peace. Trusting His faithful Word and that He will never leave you hanging on the roller coaster of life.
