“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” Philippians 4:6-8 NIV

Even in the stormy parts of our lives, God is with us!

This is a scary time for all of us. We don’t know all that’s happening, but schools are closed, stores and restaurants are closed, the news is talking about the bad things happening because of the virus, and our parents are worried. All of that makes us really afraid and worried and anxious about what might happen.

But God has an answer for us. In the verses above, Paul is telling us what we can do to feel better. First, he tells us to “not be anxious” or afraid; but to bring everything, like our worries, our fears, our problems, and our requests to God. You can tell God all that is bothering you, you can pray for your family to stay well, you can put the worry on God. When God shares our concerns we can feel peaceful and calm because He will care for us and those we love.

Paul also tells us that we can control what we think about. Instead of letting all the worry and fear and news of how bad things are fill our minds, we are to think of good things. We can choose to think about the truth of God’s love. We can remember all the wonderful things that God has done for us, like our families and friends and pets. We can think about the beauty of God’s created world. We can think about all the good things in our lives and thank God.

This week, I have two things for you to do. First I want you to make a prayer list of everything you want to take to God. For example: your feelings, your worries, your family’s safety, your blessings, your requests and your praise. Pray to God and feel peace instead of worry.

Second I want you to draw a picture of all the ways that God has blessed or helped or answered prayers for your family. For example: your family, your pets, your friends, your favorite outdoor spot, your joys, your special activities and all the things you’re thankful for. Share this with your family and you can all leave the bad news behind and talk about all the good things in your lives.

Blessings and prayers as we all take our fears and worries to God! Do not be afraid, God is with you!