Panic and anxiety are often our first reactions to conflict and problems. In those initial moments, choosing peace seems impossible. Our subconscious whispers, ‘If you really care, you will worry.’ But an experienced counsellor writes: ‘Don’t panic! No matter what the situation or circumstance, we usually have…a moment to breathe deeply and…let peace flow through our body and mind…Panic, not the task, is the enemy.’

Anxiety just empowers and enlarges the problem. Our best resource for problem-solving is always peace. Fear and anxiety block solutions; answers flow more easily and naturally from a peaceful state of mind. And God’s peace is always available to us. It’s one of the fruits of the Spirit. Paul wrote, ‘When the Holy Spirit controls our lives he will produce…in us…peace’ (among other things). Jesus said, ‘Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]’ (John 14:27 AMP). That means we can choose peace over inner conflict.

In the same verse, Jesus also said, ‘Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you’ (v.27 AMP). But just because Jesus left us His peace doesn’t mean it’ll automatically function in us. We first need to accept that peace. When we lose our peace, it’s harder to hear from God. Paul said, ‘Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts’ (Colossians 3:15 AMP). So instead of getting anxious and panicky when we face challenges today, let’s try to choose the peace God promises.

What Now?

Anytime you feel panic or worry trying to take control today, instead of dwelling on the feelings, try to think of them as just a reminder to talk to God about whatever has brought on those feelings.