TURNING ANXIETY TO ANSWERED PRAYERS

The unprecedented conversation turns on in our head;

What if I fail?

What if it doesn’t work out?

What if I get disappointed?

What if they change their mind?

What if they don’t love or accept me?

What if they …

What if it…

What if I…

What if she….

What if he…

What if we….

Then our hearts begin to pound faster than usual, belly tightens up, palms sweat profusely, sadness and gloom cloud our hearts as though the “what if” already happened.

Read: Things to remember when feeling unqualified for your calling

I have had several what if moments. Many happened, others didn’t. However, I have learnt that getting a what-if conversation going on in my head is not as important as what I do with it.

Losing our peace, joy after a what-if conversation isn’t God’s will for us. It definitely isn’t want you want either.

Read: How to maximise the present

Anxiety grips our heart when we envisage that an event in the future might turn out in an unpleasant way.  Since we can’t often control what happens in the future, how do we handle the waiting period between the what-if and the actual occurrence (or not) of our expectations?

1.   Track it

I’ve had several times when a what If was my mind’s way of prepping me before the arrival of a shocking news or event. I learnt to track my thoughts and treat them as an opportunity to prepare for the unwanted. So rather, than sweat in fear, take the mental suggestion as an expo in how to respond should it happen.

2.  Face it : I know how we often want to say, “God forbid” that can’t be me. Yeah, It can’t be you nor others but it definitely would be someone. So what if it is you? That’s the question your mind is trying to ask. Therefore, sweeping it underneath the carpet isn’t the best thing to do. Acknowledge the fear, concern or root of worry and admit that you feel whatever emotion is in there.

3. Release it:  As a model for release, some people pray, some people journal, others talk to people about it. I do all three and more. Just do what works for you. However one effective way to release anxiety is to talk to God about it.  

The Philippians 4:6-7 model is such a perfect expeller of anxiety when followed accurately. It says,

 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (ESV)”

I see Philippians 4:6-7 as a command rather than an advice.  

Read: How to gain satisfaction

So a what-if hits your head/heart rather than let anxiety ruin the moments of Joy in your life, what do you do?

1.    Pray: Express your wishes
2. Supplicate: State you specific heartfelt need/desire/expected outcome
3. Give thanks: Thank Him for the outcome (all things works for your good remember?) regardless of how it plays out in the end.

The reward? Peace that is way beyond your view would encapsulate your mind and heart.

Read: God hasn't got amnesia

So the next time anxiety knocks on the door, track it, face it and release it using the Philippians 4:6 model

Committed to your fulfilment

AnneAtulaegwu

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