I used to be afraid of the deep end of the pool. I think it started when I was little and wandered into waters that were above my head. I panicked and started freaking out, even though the ladder to get out of the pool was literally right behind me. All I could think about was being stuck in the water and not being able to breathe.

Sometimes, anxiety will sneak up on you like that. You feel the worry starting to take over. You feel yourself slipping closer and closer to the edge, about to go under. I’ve had moments in the past where I was paralyzed with anxiety and unable to do anything or think clearly.

But sometimes it helps to take some deep breaths. Focus on breathing in and breathing out. Say a short prayer as you inhale and exhale. Focus on the Father instead of the fear. You can say something like “Abba Father” as you breathe in and “I belong to You” as you breathe out.

That doesn’t make everything suddenly perfect. The fear is still there, but it no longer has the loudest voice in the room. Suddenly, you remember that God is for you, and if He is for you, who can be against you. You remember that the Lord is a safe place, a refuge and a strong tower in time of trouble. You bring to mind that God will never forsake His chosen ones or allow the righteous to be shaken.

Worry may be the default setting, but it doesn’t have to take root, It doesn’t have to have the last word. Jesus can speak peace over you and fear has to flee. Whatever you’re worried about will inevitably end, but the love of God will not. Take a few more deep breaths and cling to that hope.