A is for ANXIETY!!
How appropriate to pick the word for “A” that has been on my mind for much of today. I have heard of anxiety over and over, but have only recently considered what it really meant. I had the mistaken perception that anxiety was only a condition if there were visible signs – shortness of breath or rapid breathing perhaps. I visualized wringing of hands, pacing, shaking, crying, tics, plus all sorts of gnashing and grinding of teeth.
What about this other form of anxiety? The silent and heavy oppression when facing something unfamiliar, or the paralyzing fear of the unknown or undesirable. These are other very real versions of this debilitating disorder. The weight of depression can be suffocating while worry invades your thoughts, plans, and even your dreams. Panic will hold you captive.
Controlling anxiety takes immense effort, but beating anxiety takes an act of God! (amen!!) With calming techniques and sometimes medication there can be control. I am sure that with prayer, faith, grace and God’s love anxiety can be eliminated. I ask God to take it from those who are burdened with anxiety and to take it from me also.
” Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. ” John 14:27
a Silver Garden 