The feeling of anxiety might be one of the most common human experiences. Every person, at some level, has felt anxious or worried. While it is a common human experience, that doesn’t mean that it’s the ideal human experience that God wants for us.

Anxiety can often occur in moments when we feel like we’re losing control of a situation, or maybe even when we feel helpless. We can feel anxious when we’re uncomfortable or nervous.

In each of these scenarios, God wants to provide an answer and a help for when we’re struggling. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul encourages the church community there to bring all of their worries and anxiety to God through prayer.

While we sometimes think we can fix our problems, we’re actually inadequate at it. God is the only one who truly knows exactly what we need.

In Scripture, God is called our Provider, our Healer, and our Sustainer. He is ready and willing to help us when we’re in need. Because of that, we have so much to be thankful for, just like Paul says.

Regardless of whether or not you’re worried or anxious right now, we should all make a habit of running to God with our desires and worries. Our first response should be prayer. Before we're overcome with anxiety, we train ourselves how to respond to it—by turning to God.

Take a moment today to pause and pray to God. As Paul says, present your prayers and requests to God. Tell Him what you need and what you might be struggling with. And thank Him for always being present and willing to help.