Let Go of Worry and Embrace Peace This Season

Do you worry? I worry. I probably worry too much.

I don’t like it, and I really wish I didn’t do it. But, when you think about all the things in this world to worry about, can you blame me? 

Between everyday challenges, family responsibilities, and the whirlwind of life's uncertainties, it’s easy to let worry take the wheel. But here’s the truth: worrying doesn’t change a thing—it only robs us of peace and joy.

It’s frustrating, isn’t it? And if you’re anything like me, when the worries start piling up, it can feel impossible to find relief. You start asking yourself questions like, “Is there enough? Will I be enough? What if I’m not enough?” And before you know it, your worries grow from today’s concerns into tomorrow’s fears. But I’m here to happily remind you—you don’t have to live this way. You can experience peace, no matter what the world throws at you.

I recently found some encouragement in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians. I’ve read it several times before, but this time, in this season, it particularly captured my attention. He offers a challenge to us all: “Do not be anxious about anything.” You might be thinking, “Wait—what?” I know it’s not easy to stop worrying, especially when it feels so natural. But Paul doesn’t just leave us hanging with that statement—he shows us a better way.

Paul gives us three key antidotes to worry/anxiety: Prayer, Petition, and Praise.

Prayer—a safe place to rest:

When worry comes knocking, the first step is to pray. It’s more than just asking for help; it’s about laying down your burdens before God. When we pray, we let go of the weight we’re carrying and acknowledge that we don’t have to face everything on our own. We trust that God is in control of all things—even the ones that seem too big or too small for us to handle.

Petition—asking with confidence and belief:

Next, Paul encourages us to present our requests to God. This is where we make an earnest petition for His intervention in the areas where we feel most helpless. When we ask God to step in, we acknowledge His authority and His ability to bring healing, guidance, and provision. Nothing is too small or insignificant for Him. And when we trust Him, we make space for peace to fill the gaps.

Praise—a powerful shield:

The last antidote might surprise you—praise. It’s easy to overlook, but praise has a profound ability to shift our focus. When we choose to give thanks, even for the small things—like a beautiful sunrise, a warm blanket on a cold night, or the love of a friend—we remind ourselves of the good that still exists. Praise is a way to protect our hearts from the anxiety that tries to invade. And when we start to focus on all that’s good, we naturally make room for peace.

And here’s the best part: Paul promises that when we engage in prayer, petition, and praise, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds. This isn’t a peace that depends on our circumstances; it’s a peace that transcends them. In a world filled with uncertainty, that peace is a true gift.

As we walk through this season of Advent, a time of reflection and preparation, I invite you to lean into peace. The Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love are meant to ground us, especially in times of uncertainty. Now is the perfect time to focus on the peace that’s available to us, no matter how chaotic life may seem.

Again, I so get it—worrying is a real and natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to control you or me. There is a better way, a way to find peace, not in the absence of challenges, but in the presence of trust. God promises that His peace will guard our hearts and minds, and it’s ours for the taking. Take a moment this week, today—right now, even—to pause, pray, and give thanks. Let go of the worries that have been stealing your joy and embrace the peace that’s been waiting for you.

Let’s trade in the worries of tomorrow for the gifts of today, knowing that God is in control of both.  

Wishing you Hope, Peace, Joy and Love this Christmas Season.

With peace and gratitude,

Brock 

P.S. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by worry, remember: you’re not alone. We’re all in this together, and together, we can focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and the joy of sharing life’s sweetest moments.