But, What If?

I am so blessed beyond measure. I really can't complain. I have a hilarious and handsome husband that I absolutely adore. We have five incredible children. I have the career of my dreams with a flexible schedule and even a paid day off for my birthday. I live in the sunny south, just a quick drive from the beach in a house big enough for guests. My parents are both alive and well. My sisters are my best friends. 

But, what if something goes terribly wrong? What if my husband doesn't think I'm attractive any more because my belly looks like a Dunkin Donut? What if my inconsistent parenting causes attachment disorder and my children can't form healthy relationships with others? What if I can't live up to the expectations of my boss, lose my job, and put our family into financial ruin? What if my husband dies at a young age and I become a single mother, forced to move back in with my parents for the rest of my life?

Okay, these fears might sound a bit extreme, but I know I am not the only one struggling with anxious thoughts about the future. I read Facebook posts every day from other women who sound completely stressed out about the future. Sometimes anxiety gets so out of hand, that worries about tomorrow steal the joy away from today. Matthew 6:34 says, "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself."

Rather than worry, God commands me not to fear. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God (Philippians 4: 6). Regardless of the circumstances, Christ wants us to trust Him with the outcome. This does not mean that we should never have feelings of anxiety or thoughts of worry. Rather, when these feelings and thoughts come into our hearts and mind, we overcome them through prayer and petition to God. Once we present our requests, we must allow His peace to guard our hearts and minds from anxiety.