Finding Peace in God While Fighting Anxiety
- Valeria Gongora
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
By: Valeria Gongora
Anxiety is something that touches all our lives at one point or another; it’s a perfectly normal human emotion! That flutter of nervousness in your stomach before a big test, or that surge of adrenaline before that big presentation—these feelings are our body’s natural stress response, gearing us up to tackle challenges head-on. For some, a little anxiety can even be a motivating factor, helping us to prepare and perform better in crucial situations. However, when those anxious feelings become a persistent cloud over our heads, disrupting our daily lives, it’s a signal that we might need to refocus and strengthen our bond with God. In this article, I’m excited to share some tips and advice infused with faith, all while reminding ourselves of the support and love that surrounds us.
Let’s dive into the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42, which offers us some great insights. Martha is bustling around, preparing a meal for Jesus. But in her frenzy, she becomes overwhelmed and begins to feel frustrated with her sister Mary, who has chosen to sit at Jesus's feet, soaking in His words. Jesus, with a gentle nudge, reminds Martha, “You are worried and distracted by many things. Only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” This story conveys a powerful message: our hectic lives can often distract us from what truly matters—our relationship with God. By focusing our energy on this connection, we can discover genuine peace—even in the most chaotic of circumstances!
Tips for Managing Anxiety
1. Prayer and Meditating on Scripture:
Start your day with prayer! Incorporate the Rosary or any form of prayer that resonates with you into your routine. Imagine each bead as a little moment of calm, guiding you closer to God. Whether it's a few minutes of gratitude or a heartfelt conversation, this practice can bring a sense of tranquility to your day.
2. Enjoying Silence:
In our fast-paced world, silence can feel like a rare treasure! Carve out moments in your schedule—even if it’s just five minutes—to sit in absolute stillness. Put your phone away, close your eyes, and breathe. Allow your heart to listen for God’s gentle whispers amidst the chaos. God speaks in silence!
3. The Power of Sacraments:
Engaging with sacraments, particularly Confession and the Eucharist, can affect your spirit. These sacraments provide grace and healing.
4. Build Your Circle:
Community is everything! Surround yourself with friends and family who lift you and offer encouragement. Share your feelings with someone you trust; you’d be amazed at how supportive friends can help lighten the load. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to lean on others!
5. Prioritizing Self-Care:
Don’t underestimate the power of taking care of yourself! Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, nourishing your body with wholesome foods, and making time for physical activity. Whether it’s a brisk walk or a dance party in your living room, choose activities that make you feel alive and happy!
Pope Francis’s perspective on managing anxiety is truly inspiring! He reminded us that while it’s a normal part of life, it can spiral out of control when it replaces our trust in God’s care. He encouraged us to lean on God and seek support when needed—what a lovely reminder that we are never alone on this journey!
Anxiety is no walk in the park; it’s more like being trapped in a funhouse full of mirrors that all reflect your worst fears. One minute, you’re handling homework and sports like a pro, and the next, your heart is racing and your brain is screaming, “Panic attack incoming!” You start questioning everything—“Did I turn in that paper? What if I trip during the game? What if I hit the coach in the head with the ball? What if I’m not good enough? Oh, shoot that math test! ” It’s overwhelming! But hey, remember, it’s okay to freak out sometimes. Just breathe, and remember Jesus has got you, and know you’re not alone in this carnival ride called life!
Works Cited
Loved this article!!!