A few thoughts on anxiety

We all have issues. One of mine happens to be anxiety. I worry, fret, pull my hair out, freak out over things that I can't control. It possibly categorizes me as a control freak as well, but saying I have a bit of anxiety just sounds better.

One of the most helpful tools that I have used to deal with the anxiety is by remembering that I have the choice of what to do with the anxious thoughts when they begin to creep in. I can choose to allow the anxiety to brood, or I can choose to replace the anxious thoughts with God's promises. A few months ago, our church did a series called Give Me Faith. During that series we were given a list of Faith Confessions.

I have these on my fridge and on my desk at work. When I feel it creeping up, I immediately start speaking these and replacing the anxious thoughts with thoughts that I know to be true. A few of them I have memorized in case I'm away from the list.

Here they are:

• I am fully forgiven and free from all shame and condemnation.
• I act in audacious faith to change the world for my generation.
• I have no fear or anxiety; I trust in the Lord with all my heart.
• I am able to fulfill the calling God has placed on my life.
• I am fully funded to do everything God has called me to do.
• I have no insecurity because I see myself the way God sees me.
• I am a faithful spouse and a godly parent; our family is blessed.
• I am completely whole physically, mental and emotionally.
• I am increasing in influence and favor for the kingdom of God.
• I am enabled to walk in the sacrificial love of Christ.
• I have the wisdom of the Lord concerning every decision I make.
• I am protected from all harm and evil in Jesus' name.