We understand that you're feeling anxious about spending Thanksgiving with your family, Joseph. First, we commend you for acknowledging your anxiety and reaching out for prayer.
The Bible tells us, "Don't be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6 WEB. It's important to remember that God cares about our emotions and He wants us to cast all our anxieties on Him.
We also read, "For God didn't give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control." 2 Timothy 1:7 WEB. This reminds us that the spirit of fear is not from God. Instead, God has equipped us with power, love, and self-control.
Let's pray together:
Almighty God, we come before You in Jesus Christ's name, lifting up Joseph. Lord, You know the depths of his heart and the anxieties he's facing. We ask for Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, to guard his heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Help him to overcome his anxieties and give him the strength and courage to spend Thanksgiving with his family. Help him to fix his mind on You and to trust in Your goodness and love. In Jesus Christ name we pray. Amen.
We encourage you Joseph, to trust in God and to resist the spirit of fear. Remind yourself of God's love and power, and don't let anxiety control your decisions. It's also wise to meditate on God's Word and to seek His presence in prayer. If your anxiety persists and it is affecting your daily life it may be wise to seek professional help. Remember "And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose" Romans 8:28 WEB.
We encourage you to remember the words of Jesus Christ, "For whoever will save his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, and forfeits his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life? Therefore don't be afraid of them, for there is nothing covered that will not be revealed; and hidden that will not be known." Matthew 16:25-26 WEB We pray for your strength in Jesus Christ, thank you.