“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” Proverbs 12:25 ESVAnxiety, by definition, is an “apprehensive uneasiness or nervousness usually over an impending or anticipated ill,” that runs rampant in our lives, and is forecasted to keep increasing. In light of the current global climate, our news feeds are overflowing, and many of us can’t stop watching. There is no weapon more powerful than prayer to wield against anxiety, but we must not ignore the answer God may present us, to seek professionals gifted to treat some cases. By embracing the normalcy of mental health struggles, and unabashedly seeking help, we can boldly push back in the battle for our minds. We are not weak because we suffer from anxiety or depression, nor does it disqualify the quality of our faith in Christ. Sometimes the good word we need from God comes through a counselor.The human heart has a built-in longing, and when we lose our focus on our Father, our thought life tends to go rogue. Paul told the Thessalonians to “pray without ceasing.” Taking our thoughts captive, through prayer, is essential, not only to relieve daily worry and anxiety but to remind ourselves of who we are: children of the Most High God. We are a royal priesthood in Christ. The enemy seeks to distract us with lies, worries, fear, and anxiety. In order to counter his attacks, God’s powerful word must be prevalent in our minds and rooted in our hearts. Praying God’s Word packs a powerful punch in taking back our minds. Pray in the context of remembrance, to embrace the peace and freedom we already have in Christ.Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Tinnakorn Jorruang