A Prayer for Anxiety (For the Day You Can't Slow Down)
Anxiety is not weak faith. It is a body doing its job too well. This prayer is for the moments when your chest is tight and your thoughts have gotten ahead of you.
The prayer
Lord Jesus,
my heart is racing and I don't know how to slow it.
You said to cast every care on you, because you care for me. I bring you this one.
Take the meeting I cannot stop rehearsing.
Take the diagnosis I have not stopped Googling.
Take the person I cannot fix, and the words I said that I would take back.
Come near, and let me feel your peace where the fear is.
Amen.
The verse behind it
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
When to say it
- At the moment your chest tightens. Once, out loud if you can.
- Before you check the message you are afraid to open.
- Before a hard conversation. In the car, in the hallway, in the bathroom stall.
- When a friend texts "please pray" and you don't know the words. Say this one for them, with their name in it.
If it is heavier than a prayer
If your anxiety is making it hard to work, sleep or care for the people who need you, please tell a doctor, a counselor or a pastor. Praying does not exclude asking for help; the church has always done both.
Send it as a film
If someone you love is having a season like this, a short prayer film in Jesus's voice - with their name in it - is enough to hand them for a hard week. A Prayer Film for Them.