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A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with writer and blogger on mental health issues and faith, Emma Scrivener.

Good morning.

Years ago, anxiety wasn’t recognised as a disorder. Now, along with depression, it’s the most common form of mental illness, according to the Mental Health Foundation .

All of us have worries. Sometimes they’re small and easily solved. Like: Why haven’t I had a reply to my email? Or, why is my car making that strange noise? But sometimes our anxieties can be overwhelming. The Apostle Paul was no stranger to such pressures. When he wrote to the church in Philippi, he was chained to two guards and awaiting his fate. If anyone had cause to despair, it was him. Yet in his New Testament letter to the Philippians chapter 4, he argues that we can be surrounded by God’s peace – whatever our circumstances.

He writes, "Do not be anxious about anything; but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus".

When life is difficult, St Paul doesn’t urge us to put on a brave face or act strong. He tells us to acknowledge our fears –. then bring them to our heavenly Father. St Paul doesn’t promise us easy solutions to worry or instant relief. But by praying our fears, we can also know God’s peace.

Heavenly Father, May we know the power, the presence and the peace of Christ in the midst of trouble. Take away our anxieties and fill us with your peace. In Jesus’ name.

Amen.