Calming Anxiety

I am now in my fifties, and sometimes I can’t help but feel anxious about my future. In seven more years, I will be part of the seniors club, and I look forward to it, especially with all the perks a senior citizen gets. However, there are moments when I worry about my health—what if I develop a serious illness, become hospitalized, and die before I reach 60? Will my finances sustain me through the years? Will my children have a good life when I am gone? These are just some of the things that cause me anxiety.

But thank God, when I spend time with the Lord during my quiet moments with Him, and when I participate in Masses, I am reminded that I don’t have to be afraid of what the future holds, because God will take care of everything.

One day, while feeling down, I browsed through Facebook and came across these Bible verses in one of the reels that offer comfort and help ease anxiety:

1) Philippians 4:6-7

⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

2) John 14:27

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.

3) 2 Corinthians 12:9

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

4) Psalm 46:10

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

5) Psalm 55:22

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

6) Ecclesiastes 3:1 & 12

¹There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. ¹²I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.

I hope the verses above can also bring you comfort when you’re feeling anxious or down. Re-reading them whenever worries arise has helped me find peace and calm.

Dear Lord,

Thank you for never leaving my side in good times and bad. Please remind me to focus on your greatness when I’m anxious. Indeed, you are greater than my problems and that I don’t have to be afraid of what’s in store for the future. I only have to rely on your goodness knowing that you have a wonderful plan for me. May I also do my part in taking good care of myself and my finances hoping it will be useful in honoring you. In Jesus mighty name I pray, Amen.