What do we do in times of uncertainty? 

This year has brought so much fear and uncertainty to almost everyone.

During this unprecedented year, I have found myself dealing with more anxiety than ever. As an educator, I have watched my colleagues face unbelievable challenges, criticism from every corner, and fears and anxieties that are paralyzing–so paralyzing that it sometimes makes it hard to even focus on prayers and presenting our requests to God.

Philippians 4:6 is one of my favorite verses because it reminds me of so many things when I am anxious about EVERYTHING! Repeating this verse aloud, slowly, can bring my head out of the fog.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. – Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Read it slowly, and contemplate every phrase.

Come back to “with thanksgiving,” which essentially means to be thankful.

Be thankful…

It’s easy to forget that part of the verse. 

Even when things go dark, and your attitude needs a huge adjustment, thank God. In every situation, even the scary, world-is-turning-upside-down-pandemic, we must reach deep inside to remember the things for which we are thankful, big and small.

Thank you for this day.

Thank you for your love.

Thank you for dying on the cross for me.

And when I can’t think of anything else, when my mind won’t slow down, sometimes my only prayer is “Thank you, Jesus!” I meditate on these three little words, and they bring me peace.

Thank you, Jesus!

Thank you, Jesus!

Thank you, Jesus!

When we are thankful and welcome the holy spirit into our hearts, we can face anything!