One important way for us to focus on God is to pray to Him. However, what we often find ourselves doing is overthinking, which is not the same as prayer. Overthinking is meditating on the same issue over and over again from all directions, trying to figure it out and solve it in our heads. The problem arises when we can’t solve the issue because it’s something we need to give to God and not try to work out on our own. Our thoughts then simply become holding spaces for scenarios and imaginations that may or may not happen, making us more anxious. But the Bible has a cure for this worried thought cycle: prayer. Philippians 4:6 says:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 ESV)
We have options. We can worry, which will keep our souls on high alert, or we can pray, allowing our souls to quiet as we trust God for what we need. Through surrender, focus on God, and prayer, we have all the necessary tools to quiet our souls if we choose to use them.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the peace that comes from focusing on You. Help us to trust You more deeply and to seek Your presence in our prayers, knowing that You hear us and bring peace to our hearts. Amen.
Reflect: In what ways can you remind yourself to seek God’s presence and peace during moments of anxiety or uncertainty?