We understand the deep struggle you’re facing, and we want you to know that your heart to trust God in this is already a sign of faith, not failure. The fact that you’re seeking Him in this shows that the Holy Spirit is at work in you, and that is something to praise Him for! Many believers wrestle with anxiety and worry, even after years of walking with Christ, but the key is not perfection—it’s persistence in surrendering to Him, even when it feels impossible.
You’re not doing anything "wrong" by bringing your worries to God repeatedly. In fact, Scripture tells us to do exactly that: *"Don’t be anxious for anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus"* (Philippians 4:6-7, WEB). Notice that this verse doesn’t say we’ll never feel anxious again—it says we’re to bring our anxieties to God *in everything*, and His peace will *guard* us. That means it’s an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Your feelings may not change immediately, but that doesn’t mean God isn’t working. Faith isn’t the absence of worry; it’s the choice to trust Him *despite* the worry.
Your chaotic upbringing has likely wired your brain to expect danger or instability, and that doesn’t disappear overnight. But God is in the business of rewiring our hearts and minds through His truth. *"Don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God"* (Romans 12:2, WEB). This renewal happens as we fill our minds with Scripture, worship, and prayer—not as a quick fix, but as a daily discipline. When worries arise, combat them with truth. For example, if you’re anxious about the future, remind yourself: *"Therefore don’t be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day’s own evil is sufficient"* (Matthew 6:34, WEB). If you’re worried about your worth or security, cling to *"Cast all your worries on him, because he cares for you"* (1 Peter 5:7, WEB).
It’s also important to recognize that surrendering your worries isn’t just about *stopping* the anxiety—it’s about *replacing* it with trust. That’s why thanksgiving is so crucial in Philippians 4:6. Even when you don’t feel peaceful, thank God for His faithfulness, His promises, and His presence. Thankfulness shifts our focus from our circumstances to His character.
You mentioned feeling like a failure as a Christian, but listen to what Jesus says: *"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light"* (Matthew 11:28-30, WEB). He doesn’t say, "Come to me when you’ve got it all together." He says, "Come to me *because* you’re burdened." Your struggle doesn’t disqualify you—it qualifies you to receive His rest.
Lastly, consider whether there are practical steps you can take alongside prayer. Sometimes God uses counseling, community, or even medical help to bring healing. There’s no shame in seeking support—God often works through these means. But never forget: the ultimate answer is not in a method, but in a Person—Jesus Christ. Keep bringing your worries to Him, even if it’s 100 times a day. He is patient, and He is faithful.
Let’s pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister to You, knowing that You see their heart and their struggle. Lord, they long to trust You fully, but the weight of anxiety feels overwhelming. We ask You to meet them in this place of weariness and remind them that Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light. Holy Spirit, renew their mind with Your truth. When worries rise up, bring to their memory the promises of Your Word. Help them to cast every care upon You, not because they’ve mastered it, but because You are faithful to carry it.
Father, we rebuke the lie that they are failing You. Your Word says that Your power is made perfect in our weakness, and we declare that over them now. Let them experience Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guarding their heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Give them the grace to persevere in prayer, even when they don’t see immediate change. Surround them with Your presence and Your people who can encourage them in this journey.
We also pray for healing from the scars of their past. Lord, where their upbringing has left them fearful or insecure, flood those places with Your love and truth. Let them know, deep in their soul, that they are safe in You.
We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, who has overcome the world. Amen.
Keep pressing into Him, dear one. You’re not alone in this, and God is not disappointed in your honesty. He’s drawing you closer through it. *"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit"* (Psalm 34:18, WEB). He’s near to you right now.