Before I GoSample

If you are a human (which, if you're reading this, I hope you are), you have probably been worried at some point in time. Personally, I feel like it is in my DNA some days that I often find myself going into long periods thinking up fake scenarios of what MIGHT happen. This makes me worry more, which starts the cycle all over again. Now, worry may look different for you, but we all experience it in some way or another. What we find in this verse, though, is a game-changer!

Paul is writing this because he has gone through worry, but he invites us to step out of worry and lean into something bigger: prayer. It might seem impossible some days, but trust me, I know. In fact, I am there right now, struggling with health issues that I have trouble thinking about without crying or getting angry. However, we are called to pray to God in thanksgiving. This doesn't mean we have to be a "happy, sunshine-rainbow" prayer. God wants us to be real. God wants us to be raw and honest. I have found it is much easier talking to the God who stays and listens to me even when I feel like I can't get through my day because of all my worries. So talk to him! Tell God about what is worrying you, and then thank God. I trust and pray that God's presence will be upon you and will fill your soul with peace. I encourage you, when you are feeling overwhelmed and worried, to thank God in prayer. Get it all off your chest, and trust that God has a plan for you!

Written by Quintin, 16, from Bowling Green, Indiana, USA