If you’re struggling with anxiety about the new year starting, you are not alone. The month of December and January are the hardest months for our hearts because the things we’ve pushed to the side during the year — with busyness and distraction — rise to the surface when we slow down and reflect: Hope. Desire. Our dreams and our longings.
We are confronted with the truth of what we really need. What we truly long for and what we really want.
And along with those deep, beautiful whispers of the soul come also the fears, difficulties, or disappointments we’ve sustained during the year — or before then. The people, problems, and things that have hurt us or confuse us also surface.
And that is why we experience anxiety. Anxiety happens when we can’t move in the direction of how we feel inspired or prompted by God to live. Anxiety happens when we want to do something or say something — if we have needs — but we aren’t able to speak, take action, or express ourselves honestly with the truth of how we feel.
There is a disconnect between what is happening inside us and what we are or not able to do or say. Fears or uncertainty overwhelm us.
But, anxiety isn’t the end of your story or mine.
God’s Whispers For You
Anxiety is a doorway through which your loving Savior can enter into the most vulnerable places of your heart, to wrap His arms around you and tenderly say: You have what it takes for the journey ahead. A sunrise for new beginnings, stars to light the night, friends to share the quiet. You are My beloved. You have Me.
May Grace and peace be multiplied to you . . . (2 Peter 1:2 ESV)
By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for a godly life . . . (2 Peter 1:3 NLT)
Three Simple Soul Care Practices
As you step into the new year, here are three simple soul care practices to restore calm and experience God’s peace:
1. Meet with Jesus through a friend sitting across the table from you.
Call to have coffee. Tell your friend about both your hopes and anxieties.
Notice how you feel better after talking to someone about your troubles — even if the problem hasn’t been fixed?
Research shows depression is eased, anxiety is reduced, and people bounce back sooner (resiliency) when people share their stories and talk about how they feel when events impact them (rather than just describing what happens).
Carry each other’s burdens. (Galatians 6:2)
2. Take a walk outside today and let God touch you.
Don’t think about it. Just put on your shoes and go. You’ll return refreshed!
Studies show that just 10 minutes can refresh and help with anxiety — depression in school, work, and everyday life.
Are you tired? Worn out? Come to Me. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me. (Matthew 11:28-30)
3. Write a letter to Jesus. Confide in the One who calls you beloved.
Just grab a piece of paper and start writing about what’s important to you, how you’re feeling, and your worries. You’ll feel better!
Studies show you don’t have to “keep a journal” to reap the benefits of writing. Research shows just 15 minutes of expressive writing makes a difference, leading to behavioral changes and improving happiness.
For the word of God is living and active . . . It penetrates dividing soul and spirit. (Hebrews 4:11–12).
The word “logos” applies to God’s living word, not just written. Don’t you get ah-ha moments from God as you write?
Anxiety may be your heart’s whisper but Jesus hears you. He understands you. Anxiety is not the end of your story. Jesus steps closer to whisper to you in return —
I am making all things new — in you. (inspired by Revelation 21:5)
Take one day at a time. God will provide.
Pull up a chair. How can you allow God to bring calm and peace to you? What energizes you?
Ruth says
Thank you Bonnie for your encouraging words. You always bring the love that God has for each of us so alive and help us realize we are each one of His beloved children and there is hope in Him. May God continue to bless you as you have certainly blessed me.
Bonnie Gray says
Thank you, Ruth! What beautiful words of friendship for my heart! You ARE beloved!
Linda says
Excellent! Thanks for the encouragement, and the challenge! ❤️
Bonnie Gray says
Thanks, Linda! Be the beloved! xo
Ann Marie says
Exactly what I needed to read. Thank you
Bonnie Gray says
Sweet Ann Marie – so happy to know it spoke to your heart! thnk you!
Maria Mullins says
Thank you for your thoughtful article!
Bonnie Gray says
Hi Maria – so happy to know it spoke to your heart! thnk you! waving hello from CA to you…
Elizabeth says
Beautiful post! Anxiety certainly is not the end. God gets the final word, not our feeble, human minds. Praise the Lord for that. Thank you so much for your encouraging words.
Bonnie Gray says
Sweet Elizabeth – so happy to know it brought beauty to your heart! thnk you! yes, Praise God!
MB says
Thank~you, Bonnie, for sharing a timely Word in due season & by helping to ignite souls whose flames have been flickering less brightly, due to much unexpected adversity…Your encouragement brings fresh fire from the Throne Room of God, affirmation to those who are weary to point more to the awareness of the sustaining Love, strength, & restorative power of our Loving Heavenly Father. Truly He does see everything every one of us~ His Beloved~ are in the midst of & gently bids us to come to Him with our burdens & lay them down at His Feet, as He is The Perfect One to lighten them. Thank you for allowing Him to have you be His messenger of grace, hope, assurance, & echo the Love He has~ without end…It is a steadfast, enduring Love that can transform, heal, & cause us to soar above the winds of adversity, while finding that peaceful place of solace under His Wings~ a shelter from life’s storms, & respite for us all. God Bless you, Bonnie, this New Year, & all the years ahead, in every way possible. Your encouragement meant more than mere words give justice to, & are so eternally grateful! You are His Beloved Blessing to countless lives… Many hugs of appreciation~ mair xo
Bonnie Gray says
Hi MB, YOUR encouragement means more than I can express. It’s a special gift to connect with a kindred spirit on this journey of life and your words made my heart smile! Have a beautiful day, beloved!
Elaine says
Thank you Bonnie for such a beautiful blog. I especially liked the following: a sunrise for new beginnings, stars to light the night and friends to share quiet. Words have such an impact on our well-being and yours always inspire and encourage.
Bonnie Gray says
Hi Elaine! that was a poem and prayer that lit my heart as I was taking a walk on a new year — and felt it was meant for all of us, from our Loving Savior. your words give my heart reassurance and kindness. thank you! have a beautiful day, beloved!
Kelley Stewart says
This was very encouraging. Just what I needed to hear this morning. Thank you for sharing.
Bonnie Gray says
hi kelley, wonderful to know it spoke to your heart! thnk you! have a beautiful day, beloved.
Paula says
Thank you Bonnie! Your words blessed me so much this morning. Anxiety is so creepy and subtle….sometimes I tell myself “I’m not anxious” but I am! I love it when God confirms something….the 3 practices you recommend are ones i have tried this year and it has made a huge difference. Probably the one with the most impact has been saying out loud to a friend what I’m anxious about, depressed about…..it’s almost like speaking it breaks its “hold” on me. Keep sharing! Xoxo
Bonnie Gray says
It’s so true, isn’t it, Paula? God made us to need to name things — all things — esp. if they’re in your heart. So wonderful you have friends to name all that’s in your heart with! have a beautiful day, beloved!
Kristin L Hanley says
Yes, thank you for these words of life.
Bonnie Gray says
Hi Kristin! so happy to see you in my online places.. makes my heart encouraged. thank you! have a beautiful day, beloved!
Shelia says
Much needed. Feeling a lot of anxiety with the holidays and being down after back surgery. Still not 100% back on my feet and sitting around not doing much has been depressing. Thank you.
Bonnie Gray says
dear Jesus, just whisper your words of love and reassurance to Shelia during this time of healing. And spark some ideas that will refresh her and bring her your peace and joy during this season you’re walking with her! In your name, Amen.
Melissa Henderson says
Beautiful message. Thank you. 🙂 Have a blessed day!
Bonnie Gray says
thank you, Melissa! so happy to know it spoke to your heart! have a beautiful day, beloved.
Ely says
Yes, Thank you Bonnie for your timely words…God bless you mightily this year…
Bonnie Gray says
Sweet Ely, so happy to know it spoke to your heart! thnk you! have a beautiful day, beloved.
Stephanie says
Thank you ❤
Bonnie Gray says
love from CA to you, Stephanie… thnx you!
Gail says
Happy New Year, Bonnie!
Writing a letter to Jesus is something I will do today! I know I am seen as a woman of faith, but sometimes comparing myself to other women of faith, I feel like I am lacking somehow. I know I shouldn’t compare, but reading your post about finding my one word for 2017 and then reading those wonderful replies, left me feeling like I do need to get closer to the Lord this year.
I read this post after reading those replies, and it spoke to me softly and gently. It was a reminder that we are all on our own paths and our heavenly Father embraces each of us for who we are and where we are.
Thank you again for allowing God to speak through your words.
Bonnie Gray says
You, beautiful, beloved Gail — there is ONLY one of you — and God’s gentle whisper – His One Word is only going to only be for you — It touches my heart to know that today’s words brought God’s whispers close to your heart. For He is.
Gail says
Thank you my friend, Bonnie! Your words are a gift of healing and encouragement.
<3
Brena says
thank you bonnie! i have been having nightmares for over a week. still dont understand why it continues. but i pray that this will help.
Sarah Coleman says
Bonnie,
Your “anxiety happens when…” perfectly explain what my heart has been feeling lately. I was anxious but could not put my finger on why. Your words helped bring clarity. Thank you.
Joni G. says
Thank you, Bonnie. I feel strengthened and encouraged by your words.
Good work for my soul. It’s so much easier to share someone else’s burdens and keep mine hidden.
Katie says
Thank you friend. Your words are wise and I KNOW that you get it because you have been through it. And go through it. I am so grateful for your words today. They help. Sending this link forward to a friend today. I think she can use this reminder also.
Yvonne Tippins says
I have been really feeling overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty at the start of this new year. Thank you for your encouraging blog that reminds me again that God is in control and we need only trust in His perfect grace and provision when we feel anxiety creeping up on us……New beginnings can be daunting but they also open the way for God to work in wonderful ways, if we trust in Him.
Rebecca L Jones says
This is a great post. Women are just talkers, most of us kept silly little diaries as girls, but as mature women of God, we sometimes fail to express the emotions that get bottle up in day to day life. As caregivers for others we lose ourselves in being wives, mother, and friends. Just work, cooking and cleaning can overwhelm us from time to time. I like the Bible journaling, though I haven’t tried it, I love shairing pictures and verse on Pinterest, and doing a blog has been a blessing. I knew I could share something to encourage women, Never forget, He loves us most, so as Bonnie says, be the beloved, and get some rest.
Penny says
Bonnie,
Your words bring a sense of peace, and I appreciate that so much.
Have a Happy, and blessed New Year
Penny
Nicki Schroeder says
I just spent the afternoon with a girlfriend, drinking coffee and pouring our hearts out about the things that are troubling our souls right now and praying for each other. Such a blessing to then come home and see your post. Love your authenticity, Bonnie. And your heart to encourage women.
Mel says
Happy new year, Bonnie! Thank you for sharing this post. Thank you for the reminder that anxiety is not the destination … thank you for being living proof of God’s grace and beauty. Be very blessed.
Susan says
Dear Bonnie,
Thank you for this heart felt and helpful post. I really appreciate it. I do find myself feeling anxious, fearful and overwhelmed a lot. I have been this way for a long time and am really wanting to pray the Lord would really change me this year. I know He desires this as well.
My friend sent me the following link that I found helpful as well. It talks about how just a few minutes of heart felt sharing can do so much good. I am praying to slow down and seek to build deeply into a few relationships this year and to be available to just be with those who need a loving and listening ear.
Thank you for your encouragement. God bless you, Susan
http://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/friendship-bench-proven-alleviate-mental-illness-symptoms/?utm_campaign=newsletters&utm_medium=weekly_mailout&utm_source=04-01-2017
Nancy Ruegg says
“Anxiety is a doorway through which your loving Savior can enter.” These words caught my attention, challenging me to turn worrisome thoughts into prayer immediately, as soon as I realize anxiety has wormed its way into my consciousness. As soon as I do, Jesus will be there with his peace and encouragement. And thank you, Bonnie for those three research-based strategies that combat anxiety. Very helpful!
Jacinta says
I love writing to Jesus and waiting for Him to speak. It’s the best form of therapy! 🙂
Colleen says
As we face difficult days and we look for God’s strength, your encouragement to take a quick walk, journal your thoughts or call someone for coffee are extremely encouraging. We aren’t alone, He is with us even when we might not feel it.
Thank you for helping us to refocus. Blessings!
Elizabeth Sparks says
Thank you so much for sharing. I can’t even begin to tell you how God has spoken to me through your words. I have been praying about these very issues throughout today with a heavy heart. And then how quickly He led me to your writing this evening. Oh He is so Gracious! Comforted & encouraged by your words.
Beth Williams says
Bonnie,
Your writing is inspiring to me. Women tend to have anxiety, depression more than men. We feel like we have to do it all & be composed all the time. Truth is God never intended for us to live like this. He asks us to sit still and know. He wants us to quiet our souls and get spiritual whitespace. Yes walking outside in the woods or just along the road with good Christian music is great therapy for the rushed, upset soul!
“Anxiety is a doorway…” Yes. Just love this!! He can enter in and give us that soul rest we desperately need!!
Have a great 2017! 🙂
Lisa says
Wow, Bonnie, what a well-written post! You really summed it all up so well! I also appreciated this quote, as I have seen that many women, even in Bible study classes at churches I’ve attended, don’t always agree that regular, traditional journalling is best for everyone:
“Studies show you don’t have to “keep a journal” to reap the benefits of writing. Research shows just 15 minutes of expressive writing makes a difference, leading to behavioral changes and improving happiness.”
Thanks for being such a clear and succinct voice for so many in need of (in)couragement:-)
Jeanne says
Bonnie your first book was the starting point of making the quiet my friend. Being still in a do it now world is very hard for me. 2016 brought many changes. I’m looking everyday for our Lord in the noise and quiet. You’re the blessing reminding me He loves me. Thank you for your courage to share and tenacity to remind us – we are beloved.
Gem says
Hi Bonnie thanks a lot for sharing and making God’s Word alive. You are such a beautiful soul. Your posts have been of much help when I was dealing with loss some years ago. Helped me to stay connected to the Living Word. This morning, its early morning at my place cause I live on a small island in the Indian Ocean, I am very happy to hear from you. Had to take a very painful decision yesterday, Your sweet words are of much comfort. Been thinking of journaling lately. Dont really know how to start….. Continue to share your stories. May your family and yourself stay blessed. Take care