“You’re such a worrier,” she casually said over the phone after I completely poured out my heart per my usual vulnerable fashion. “You’re right,” I quickly resounded. But my thoughts held a different response, something quite on the contrary.  Sure, I was a natural worrier, but did this friend, that I trusted and highly admired, need to point that out to me?

Yes! Yes, she did. That’s because my ever-evolving worry was starting to control me, and dare I say, had even become a comforting (and sinful) habit. My friend was just being honest by calling me out, holding me accountable, and reminding me that worry is not something God wants me to carry, much less tightly hold on to. Sweet friends really are the best (Proverbs 27:9), aren’t they?

So, my sweet friend, is it okay that I call you that? I know we likely don’t know one another, but if you are a believer, then we are friends! That said, you obviously landed here for a reason. Maybe you are also a massive worrier. Well, here I am calling you out. Maybe you need to hear that today. Now, before your thoughts grow in frustration as mine did when my friend’s honesty rubbed me the wrong way (at first), let me clarify why it’s important that we pay attention to our worry. Worry, in and of itself, isn’t sinful. However, when it consumes our lives and continually takes over our thoughts, we give the enemy a foothold and are putting our faith on the line.

Truth be told, we all worry at some point in our lives, especially when faced with unexpected seasons or challenging situations. But it’s all in how we respond that makes the difference! We can either trust God and lay out our concerns, fears, and anxious heart at His feet or we can bend towards those hasty feelings, allowing them to become an unhealthy habit, and quite possibly creating a sinful pattern.

As we begin the season of Lent and usher in this beautiful and meaningful season, let’s set our hearts and minds on welcoming peace and embracing the richness of life that God has extended to us. Let’s let go of worry! Not sure how to do that? No worries, friend. I’ve got you! Below are five easy steps you can take each day to calm your mind, release the worry, and experience joy.

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