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“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

As I watched the news, anxious thoughts formed. Seeing all the suffering and hearing countless experts talk about possible future scenarios felt overwhelming. Will this ever end? Will things ever be normal again? How do I control these anxious thoughts?

Controlling anxious thoughts requires renewing your mind. That takes diligence. Diligently spending time in Scripture, where transforming truth can be found. Intentionally reframing unhealthy thoughts using that truth. And deliberately limiting exposure to the things that promote the patterns of this world—things like news channels, social media and even certain movies and television shows.
Starting each day reading God’s Word and talking to Him helps align our hearts and minds with his perspective. As we are reminded of his goodness and his sovereignty, we can rest in our circumstances without succumbing to fear.

When anxiety-producing thoughts do come, how can we take control of them rather than letting them run amok? Try asking these questions: Why is the thought making me anxious? What possible outcome do I fear? What evidence can I find for and against that outcome? In other words, how real is the threat? Finally, what does God say about my security and my future? When Paul encountered a storm at sea on his way to Rome, going down with the ship was certainly a potential outcome. But God had already told Paul that he would testify in Rome, so he remained confidently calm in the face of dire circumstances. Our ultimate destination is no less secure.

If you are like me and watching the news makes you more anxious, limit your exposure. Or you may find that staying informed reduces your anxiety. Either way, it is important for us to remember that not everything we hear or read apart from Scripture is true, so however much time we choose to spend engaging with news, we should balance it with time spent reading God’s Word, praying and enjoying the beauty of His creation.

Daily choices made to renew our minds. Daily practice taking every thought captive to what the Bible says is true. Daily worship leading to a life of trusting God and His perfect will.

“Lord, thank You for Your Word. Help us to put our trust in Your truth rather than what the world says so that we can look more like you and less like the world.”

For His Glory

Ann Skalaski
TRBC Women’s Life