Do you struggle with anxiety or depression?  At some point in life, whether it’s right now or happened years ago or years in the future, anxiety will try to steal your joy. As women, we are emotional, compassionate, and caring. The world wants us to be independent, strong, and confident, but we all know that’s not how we are every day. Even as an adult, I struggle to be strong and confident. The girls that look confident, strong, independent, and happy could be breaking down on the inside. We’ve all heard the saying “Never judge a book by it’s cover,” but have you ever thought about why? Just the other day, a friend of mine told me that she noticed one of her students was acting different during class. Normally she was bubbly and energetic, talkative and smiling, but that day, she was just quiet. When her grandmother picked her up, she asked her if the girl was feeling okay. The girl’s grandmother looked up and said, “She’s going to be okay but her parents both went to court today and lost custody of her. They’re both going to jail.” The beautiful bubbly little girl that always had a smile on her face was broken on the inside. Who do you know that’s hiding behind a smile?

Challenge: This week I want you to go on a scavenger hunt. I want you to search the word anxiety in the Bible App and find resources that can help you when you struggle. There are tons of 5-10 day Bible Studies that can help you on your toughest days. If you need more help, reach out to a friend, ask them to pray with you and help you find the joy in your life. Take a stack of note cards and write down scripture that will help you along this journey. Post them around your room or carry them with you for instant comfort. Whatever you do, don’t give up! You are a child of God, precious, and chosen. Choose joy and choose to let God win.

May God Bless you and Show you His Grace every day!