From Anxiety to Rest

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29

Perhaps we all have some anxiety that sneaks up and bites us every now and then. Missy Tippens, a contributing writer for All God’s Children, shares a message with which we can all identify. Even if you have never had a pet, please keep reading—there is something here for you.

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We love getting our dogs from rescue organizations. We’re so thankful for shelters that take in animals and try to find homes for them. But sometimes an animal still struggles even after it’s been placed with a family. Our son’s girlfriend adopted a small dog eight months ago, and we recently got to meet her. Her name is Cherry. She is a sweet but timid dachshund mix who was turned in to the shelter along with sixteen other dogs when her owner passed away. Overnight, Cherry’s world was upended. Though she is settling in and learning to trust, she struggles with separation anxiety and tends to stay right beside her new mom.

The day we met Cherry she had spent a short time in her crate while her mom was away. And though she normally does pretty well, that time she was in a new setting with new sounds, and she panicked. She had tried to chew her way out, so her muzzle was a little raw. Of course, she was fine once reunited with her mom, reassured that she hadn’t been deserted.

I’m like Cherry sometimes. There are days when I struggle with anxiety, when I worry about my loved ones, when I panic. Like Cherry, I forget to trust that the One who loves m is dependable and always wants the best for me and my family. Just like Cherry needs to learn to trust that her new mom will return, I need to rest in God’s loving care.

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My anxiety tends to rise up when I am faced with the unknown that involves…  How would you personally finish that sentence? Give it to Him!

Lord, only in You can I find peace. Only in You can I find reassurance. Thank You that I am Your beloved child. Help me to rest in You. AMEN.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBnF3VSd0hw&t=11s Anchor of Peace