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Mornings are meant to be a fresh start, a time of renewal, and an opportunity to embrace the blessings of a new day. However, for many Christian women, mornings can be accompanied by overwhelming anxiety, leaving them feeling discouraged and uncertain. If you find yourself caught in the cycle of morning anxiety, take heart, for there is hope. In this blog post, we will explore how to break the cycle of morning anxiety with practical and faith-based strategies to help you break free and embrace the peace and joy God desires for you.
Begin With Prayer
Start your morning by inviting God into your day through prayer. Pour out your worries, fears, and anxieties before Him, acknowledging that He is in control. Surrender your burdens and trust that God will guide and protect you throughout the day. Remember, as 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.1 Peter 5:7
God is big enough to take on your worries and your fears. You can choose to carry them around, or you can give them to Him for the day.
As you think about how to break the cycle of morning anxiety, imagine a world where you are sheltered and protected. Think of a space where you are safe and full of peace. Dear sister, God has that for you!
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most Hig will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.Psalm 91: 1-2
God’s arms are ready and waiting for you. You only need to choose to enter his shelter and protection every morning. How much more confident and full of peace will you be when you start your day in the shelter of God!?
Establish a Peaceful Morning Routine
Create a morning routine that fosters peace and tranquility. Wake up a few minutes earlier to allow yourself time for prayer and reading Scripture. Consider incorporating calming activities like gentle stretching, deep breathing exercises, or journaling. By starting your day in a peaceful state of mind, you can reduce anxiety and set a positive tone for the day.
A peaceful morning routine typically starts with a nighttime routine. In the evening, ensure that you are packed and ready to go for the day. Pack your workbag and your lunch. Try meal prepping. Set a practical bedtime so that you can wake up in the morning. Our mornings can be more peaceful when we aren’t worried about getting things ready that we could have prepped the night before.
Focus on Gratitude
Gratitude has the power to shift our perspective and cultivate a joyful heart. Each morning, take a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life and thank God for His goodness. Make a habit of writing down three things you are grateful for each day, no matter how small they may seem. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can help alleviate anxiety by redirecting your focus from worries to the abundant blessings surrounding you.
Fill Your Mind With God’s Promises
The Bible is a treasure trove of promises that offer hope and encouragement. Identify key verses that speak directly to your anxieties and write them down. Meditate on these promises and allow them to sink deep into your heart. Whenever anxious thoughts arise, combat them with God’s truth. For example,
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.Isaiah 41:10
Join The Flock for free to access the resource library! There you will find a printable full of verses you can read and memorize to calm your anxious heart.
When you are trying to figure out how to break the cycle of morning anxiety, looking toward God is my favorite cycle breaker! Do you know what I love about reading the Bible? It represents truth. The world is full of lies. Evil is full of lies and wants to rob you of the peace you can have daily. BUT Jesus says My Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. HELLO Take it! It was given to you. All you have to do is accept the peace God has for you.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.John 14:27
Seek Support and Encouragement
God created us to live in community and to support one another. Contact trusted Christian friends or family members who can provide encouragement, prayer, and accountability. Consider joining a Bible study group or connecting with a mentor who can offer guidance and support during your journey of breaking free from morning anxiety.
It is time to contact a trusted therapist or counselor if your anxiety disrupts major life activities. Reaching out for professional help is not a sign of weakness or faithlessness!
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually is crucial in combating morning anxiety. Ensure you get enough rest, nourish your body with healthy food, and exercise regularly. Remember, self-care is not selfish but an act of stewardship over the temple God has entrusted to you.
I have long thought that self-care was simply spa days, manicures, and chocolate. If you know me, you know that I don’t enjoy any of the above. Then it occurred to me. I am the temple of the living God. That temple should be cared for. Caring for yourself and the temple does not have to be the stereotypical spa day! Take care of your body. Watch what you are putting into your mind and heart. Get sleep, proper nutrition, and water, and feed your soul! Looking for some help calming your mind from a biblical perspective? Sign up for our Abiding Rest course today!
Breaking the cycle of morning anxiety is an ongoing process, but with faith and perseverance, you can experience a transformation in your mornings. By anchoring yourself in prayer, gratitude, and God’s promises, you can cultivate a sense of peace and hope that surpasses all understanding. Remember, as Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “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.