UNPACK this...Fear and WorrySýnishorn

Worry in the Excitement

Playing and winning on the big stage of the NCAA Tournament is probably the dream of most college basketball players. Along with positive and enthusiastic emotions, they most likely have feelings of anxiety, pressure, and worry.

Not wanting to let their family or the fans down and realizing their NBA chances may be on the line, players wrestle with mixed emotions before the ball is even tipped.

When it comes to our own lives, I’m sure we can relate to some level of anxiety, pressure, and worry - even from the best opportunities. We’re hopefully thankful for our job and enjoy what we do, but uneasiness and concern can still infiltrate our minds each day when it comes to keeping our jobs or getting a raise. 

Although getting married is exciting, apprehension can creep in leading up to the wedding, as well as, afterward when striving to be a loving spouse. Having a baby is a beautiful miracle, but nervousness can arise during pregnancy, and fear often pops up while raising children. 

Regardless of the circumstances, the Bible offers us hope in Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].” 

Every day we face the battle of trusting God instead of letting anxiety and worry win. It’s not easy, but if we continue to follow Jesus closely we know there is hope. 

Today, let’s find peace because of Jesus and experience joy in the situations we face. Let’s not allow anxiety, pressure, and worry to take that joy away. 

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! 

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing me to come to You in prayer, regardless of the circumstance or situation. Teach me to trust You more while finding peace that surpasses all understanding because of Jesus. Please help me not to let pressure or worry steal my joy, but to be joyful in all of the opportunities and blessings You give me. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.