Lord, the last 12 hours I have been more anxious. (You know this). Unknown bodily sensations can trigger me. I can fear the worst.

“So then, surrender to God. Stand up to the devil and resist him and he will flee.”- James 4:7.

Lord, I need your comfort. Please speak to me.

“Kimi, breathe in my peace. Keep breathing in my peace. When you are anxious- you hold your breath, scanning your body for what you think are “warning signals”, these unknown sensations. Nothing is unknown to me. When you get stuck in your anxious thoughts, pause, close your eyes and breathe. I am holding you as your loving father. Just like Jeremy held Joy last night during her panic attack. I have you. I have you. I have you. Lean into that embrace. Stay closing your eyes and breathing until you sense I’m holding you.”

I then read what my Jesus Calling devotional said, “Trust me and don’t be afraid. I want you to view trials as exercises designed to develop your trust muscles. You live in the midst of fierce spiritual battles, and fear is one of Satan’s favorite weapons. When you start to feel afraid, affirm your trust in Me. Speak out loud, if circumstances permit.”

I use this alot. “I trust you Jesus.”

The following day while walking with my class I began to feel the familiar anxiety dread. I slowed my pace and recognized that the Lord carries me. Slowing my pace helps so much. Rushing always produces stress and anxiety. The walking speed of monks/sisters at monasteries I have visited has always stuck with me. There is no hurry. They almost look like they are floating with their long robes. There is a peace that carries them. They walk in the knowledge that God’s presence goes with them.