Why We Struggle with Anxiety: Finding Peace in What We Cannot Control

Anxiety is something many of us know all too well. Whether we are busy mothers juggling the needs of our children, high-achieving professionals striving to meet every deadline, or empty nesters adjusting to a quieter home, anxiety can sneak in and take hold. It often feels like a heavy weight pressing down on our hearts, whispering worries about things beyond our reach. But why do we struggle with anxiety so much and so often? What is it about our human experience that makes us vulnerable to these restless thoughts?

I want to share some reflections and stories that might resonate with you. More importantly, I want to remind you that there is hope and a way to find peace, even when life feels overwhelming.

The Common Thread: Our Lack of Control

Have you ever noticed how anxiety often arises when we realize there are things we simply cannot control? It might be a child’s health, a project at work, or the future of a relationship. This awareness can make us feel like we're standing on the edge of a vast ocean, unsure of what the waves will bring or if they'll pull us into the deep.

Take Sarah, a mother of three young children. She wakes up each morning with a to-do list a mile long. Between school drop-offs, work meetings, and household chores, she feels pulled in every direction. But what truly unsettles her is the uncertainty of her youngest child’s recent health diagnosis. No matter how many appointments she schedules or how many questions she asks, some outcomes remain unknown. This lack of control fuels her anxiety.

Or consider Lisa, a corporate executive who prides herself on her ability to manage complex projects. When her company announced a major restructuring, she found herself anxious about her job security. Despite her best efforts, she could not control the decisions made by higher-ups. The feeling of helplessness gnawed at her confidence.

Even Mary, an empty nester who thought she would finally find peace, struggles with anxiety. Her children are grown and living far away, but she worries about their safety and happiness. She cannot control their choices or the challenges they face, and this realization sometimes leaves her feeling adrift.

These stories show us a simple truth: anxiety often grows from the soil of uncertainty and lack of control. When we face situations where our influence is limited, our minds race with "what ifs" and worst-case scenarios.

Why Do We Feel This Way?

Our struggle with anxiety is deeply human. It is tied to our desire for safety, predictability, and order. When life feels unpredictable, our minds try to protect us by scanning for threats and preparing us to respond. This is a natural survival mechanism.

In our modern lives, this mechanism can become overactive. Instead of helping us navigate immediate dangers, it keeps us trapped in cycles of worry about things that may never happen. We become exhausted by the constant mental noise.

Have you ever asked yourself, Why can’t I just let go? It’s a question many of us wrestle with. The answer often lies in the illusion of control. We want to believe that if we just try hard enough, plan well enough, or prepare thoroughly enough, we can keep everything safe and secure.

But the truth is, some things are beyond our control. And that’s okay.

When Anxiety Feels Overwhelming

Anxiety can feel like a storm inside us. It can make our hearts race, our thoughts spiral, and our bodies tense. Sometimes it’s a quiet, persistent hum; other times, it’s a loud roar that drowns out everything else.

I remember a time when I felt completely overwhelmed by anxiety. It was during a season of change and uncertainty. I was trying to hold everything together - my family, my work, my faith - but inside, I felt like I was unraveling. The more I tried to control the situation, the more anxious I became.

In those moments, I realized that my anxious thoughts were carrying me away from peace. They were pulling me into a place of fear and isolation.

God Knows Us

Here is the beautiful truth that has brought me comfort time and again: God knows us intimately. He understands our fears, our struggles, and our restless hearts. He sees the anxious thoughts that carry us away and offers a gentle invitation to come to Him.

When anxiety threatens to overwhelm, spending time with God is a powerful remedy. Reflecting on His love for us, His unchanging nature, and His promise to never leave or forsake us can anchor our souls.

The Bible reminds us in Isaiah 41:10: “So 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.” This promise is not just words on a page. It is a lifeline for every anxious heart.

How can we embrace this promise in practical ways?

• Set aside quiet moments each day to pray and listen. Even five minutes can make a difference.

• Meditate on Scripture that speaks of God’s faithfulness and peace.

• Write down your worries and then surrender them to God in prayer.

• Join a community of believers who can support and encourage you.

• Remember that God’s love is constant, even when life feels uncertain.

  
  

These simple steps can help us shift our focus from what we cannot control to the One who holds all things in His hands.

Embracing Peace in the Midst of Uncertainty

Anxiety may never disappear completely, but it doesn’t have to define us. When we lean into God’s presence, we find a peace that surpasses understanding. This peace doesn’t depend on circumstances but on the unshakable foundation of God’s love.

So, the next time you feel anxious, remember this: you are not alone. Your feelings are valid, but they do not have to carry you away. God is with you, ready to meet you in your moments of fear and uncertainty.

Let’s choose to spend time with Him, to reflect on His promises, and to rest in His unchanging nature. In doing so, we discover a freedom that transforms our hearts and renews our hope.

May you find comfort today in the knowledge that God knows you deeply and loves you endlessly.

If you want to explore more about finding healing and freedom through faith, consider visiting Rebekah Storey’s website for resources and encouragement tailored to your journey.