Your mind is not a vacuum. It is always filled. When you experience anxious thoughts, you are allowing the peace of God to be crowded out with worries about work, family responsibilities, health concerns, financial troubles, and broken relationships. Worry, once it takes root, spirals into anxiety and subsequently sleepless nights, poor decision making, irritability, and health issues. How can you prevent this downward spiral when the situation seems overwhelming? The answer is found in the Bible. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5 ESV). Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV).You will not be sheltered from all misfortune, but our Lord is the antidote to anxiety. In John 16:33 (NIV), Jesus promises that you will have peace in Him, adding, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Put your trust in the Lord.