How do we react when we feel overwhelmed by problems? How do we respond when we feel discouraged or hopeless?
This past week was especially tough on my family and yours. We all have the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Tropical Storm Ida, COVID-19, Afghanistan, and countless other things on our minds. This was amplified by seeing our 15-year-old daughter crying in the passenger seat of my truck. She’s had significant school, friend and athletic anxiety thrust back onto her recently as she entered her sophomore year of high school. As I tried to console her sobbing, I calmed her down, and we separated and discussed her worries one by one. Mainly, I wanted to remind her that she can come to me with anything…she can lay all her burdens on me, and as her father, I will ALWAYS be there for her. I also reminded her that everyone experiences anxiety, and this is part of life. However, it usually eases once the triggering event is over. I then asked her these questions…
How will you feel about this in a week?
How will you feel about this in a month?
How will you feel about this in a year?
How will you feel about this in 5 years?
I’m far from an expert on how to handle these things, but I think separating the worries and my series of questions eased her anxiety! That’s when I reminded her that my father God will handle all of her (and your) burdens for eternity.
Today, your burdens may seem too heavy to face. You may have physical or financial needs. You may be worried or afraid and may even have trouble sleeping. You may feel frustrated or confused. You may feel there isn’t any hope. You may not have any idea what to do.
No matter your circumstances, if you truly trust in the Lord, you will be solid as a rock. There is hope. The Bible says, “He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” You don’t need to fear, worry, or be anxious. Cast on the Lord every burden you face. Trust in Him. Place your hope in Him. Remember, He cares for you.
Blessings,
Chad Mitchell
Psalm 55:22 “ Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.”
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You are awesome and thank you for encouraging us
Thank you for sharing. Being a stand-up father in today’s society seems to be lacking. Remembering the promise is truly the key to anxiety reduction.
Chad, this is simply beautiful. Reading it brought tears to my eyes. We as parents love our children so much and want to fix everything for them. Imagine how much bigger and kinder our Heavenly Father is if only we trust in Him and cast all our burdens on Him. Thanks so much for this insight.
As I’m currently facing lots of anxiety coming from all ends and was reluctant to open this email. You see, I have given up hope on everything and everyone. Still holding on to the Lord to see me through this trial as he has so many times before. I am so grateful that I read your encouraging words. Your words are exactly what I needed to hear/read today as I try again to grab hold of my life in hopes of a small glimmer of hope for what’s to come. I listen to Starr all day every day, but I’ve lost the ability to sing with my whole heart like I used to because I love to sing especially the beautiful songs I hear on Starr that would always encourage and give me hope. I will hold on to your inspiring words, continue to hear these beautiful songs, and connect to God through church and giving back. These helped me when my husband passed seven years ago and I know that they will help this time around as well. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
I hope that your daughter feels better soon. My daughter experienced the same thing her freshman year. The crying lasted a good month. With the inspiring words and songs we hear on Starr and at church she was able to overcome all trials. This is why I contribute monthly because I truly believe that Starr has and will continue to help so many people like me and my daughter. God Bless you all for the amazing work you do 🙏