40-Day Worship Experience Youth Devotionalਨਮੂਨਾ

Yesterday we looked at the power of self-talk. For many of us, one of the loudest voices in our heads is worry. We have anxious, fear-driven thoughts that affect how we show up in the world.

One way I combat anxiety is to repeat to myself, “I don’t worry. I pray!” It’s a simple statement that reminds me not to get lost in my own brain but instead to turn my focus to God, which helps me stop negative thoughts before they take too much of my attention.

Worry tends to move your focus away from God, while prayer draws you closer to Him. Through prayer, you recognize that He is with you, He cares for you, and He will help you.

Prayer is about transforming your concerns and fears into requests you make to God. Many times, after you pray, you’ll need to take action to address whatever is concerning you. If you start with prayer, though, you’ll have a clearer mind, a calmer heart, and the benefit of God-given ideas and creativity.

The Bible talks about praying “with thanksgiving” (Philippians 4:6–7). In prayer, you don’t just tell God about your needs; you also express gratitude for the blessings you’ve received. Gratitude has the power to shift your perspective and fill your mind and emotions with positivity.

God is your source of wisdom, comfort, and guidance. So don’t start with worry. Start with prayer. Say, “I don’t worry. I pray!” And then, with thanksgiving, made your requests known to God, allowing Him to replace worry with peace.

Reflect

When worries start piling up, what do you usually do? What worries do you need to turn over to God today?