This past summer, I spent time seeking GOD's direction for my next prayer assignment at CCA. For more than 30 days, I heard nothing. Finally, amid a very difficult time for my family as we suffered the loss of my aunt, the LORD told me to pray against the spirit of anxiety over the students, faculty, and staff at CCA.

I began to research anxiety through books, scriptures, and podcasts. I came upon a simple definition which helped me fully understand what it means to be anxious.  Anxiety is defined as apprehensive uneasiness or nervousness usually over an impending or anticipated event or uncertain outcome.

My family and I were genuinely led to CCA by the Holy Spirit. I knew as we drove onto campus we were called to be at CCA. We had not walked into one building, but I knew. Everything fell in place, and before I knew it, my children were starting their first day at CCA. I felt so much fear as the new school year began.  I worried about their clothes, their shoes, what to order for hot lunch, how I would volunteer. Eventually, my husband noticed. Something was wrong.  How was it that I KNEW God told us to come to CCA, but I was still worrying? CCA is a loving, spirit-filled environment, but I was still anxious. I realized my concern stemmed from a negative experience I had as a child at a private Christian school. I was projecting the anxiety I felt from my past onto the present situation with my children. I was uneasy and nervous over an anticipated event.

God didn't intend for Christians to waste a moment preoccupied with stress and worry. He has given us clear instructions and scripture to apply to our feelings of anxiety.

Here are a few thoughts, along with scriptures to meditate on when you feel anxious:

Remember to Pray. When I begin to feel anxious, I ask the Lord to help me to let things go. I remember:  Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 

Remember God's Word. I remind myself that ultimately God is in control, and He says that I am to go to Him for everything and leave everything at His feet.

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

Remember My Family. In order for me to be fully present with my husband and children, I must have a healthy body, mind, and spirit.  I keep photos of my family on my phone and desk as a constant reminder of my goal to be stress-free, healthy, and whole.

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.  1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Remember To Do My Best. I do my best and let God handle the rest. 

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men. Colossians 3:23

I accept my assignment this year for CCA. I am praying daily for the spirit of fear and anxiety to be removed from each student, faculty, staff, leader, and family within the CCA community.  I will also be praying those suffering with signification anxiety within our community will seek outside help when needed. 

Click here if you want to read more about childhood anxiety.