I struggle with anxiety every day. It’s not because I don’t know that God loves me and that He’ll take care of me—I do know this—but it’s simply something that I deal with. Maybe you struggle with anxiety too. There are some daily habits I’ve taken on that seem to help me live with a little more peace. These are not a cure, but they help me feel calmer and more easily able to trust God.

I pray and read my Bible at the start of every day. This helps me get my focus where it should be, and it allows me time to cast my anxiety on God (Colossians 3:1-2; 1 Peter 5:7).

I move my body in some way in the morning. Sometimes I follow videos that I find online to slowly stretch and breathe, and lately I’ve started playing worship music while doing heel raises and squats too.

I try to go for a daily walk. This gives me a chance to move my body again, be in nature, and enjoy being alone with God. I usually feel the least anxious while walking.

I know that not getting enough sleep affects my mind and how I feel, so I take time to rest when I can—especially if I’m feeling extra tired or extra anxious.

God loves us, and He will take care of us. He has us in His hand. I’ve found it’s easiest for me to believe all that when I’m taking care of my body and getting the rest I need. May you find relief in the midst of your anxiety, maybe even by taking on some of the habits that I have. And may you experience the love of Jesus, who is always with you. • Emily Acker

• Have you discovered any habits that help you feel peaceful? We live in a world that’s full of stressors and anxiety. Thankfully, Jesus understands how we feel, and He promises that anxiety will be gone forever when He returns. And in the meantime, He promises to always be with us. How could it be helpful to remember that, whenever we feel anxious, Jesus is right here with us?

• God wants to help us in lots of ways, including prayer and Scripture—and the care and expertise of other people. When you find yourself feeling worried or anxious, who is a trusted adult you could talk to? If you need someone to talk to, you can request a free conversation with Focus on the Family’s Counseling Department by calling 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time). Please be prepared to leave your contact information for a counselor to return a call to you as soon as possible. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time).

[Jesus said,] “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (NIV)