Prayers for anxiety and peace of mind
Worry pulls us into tomorrow; prayer brings us back to God, who is here today. These are words the saints and the Bible give for anxious hearts. Prayer isn’t a replacement for help: if anxiety is heavy, talk to a doctor too.
St. Teresa of Ávila’s bookmark
Let nothing disturb thee,
Nothing affright thee;
All things are passing;
God never changeth;
Patient endurance
Attaineth to all things;
Who God possesseth
In nothing is wanting;
Alone God sufficeth.
Source: St. Teresa of Ávila (died 1582), found in her breviary; translated by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “Santa Teresa’s Book-Mark”
“Be nothing solicitous”
Be nothing solicitous; but in every thing, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Source: Douay-Rheims Bible (Challoner), Philippians 4:6-7
“Casting all your care upon him”
Casting all your care upon him, for he hath care of you.
Source: Douay-Rheims Bible (Challoner), 1 Peter 5:7
“Come to me”
Come to me, all you that labour, and are burdened, and I will refresh you.
Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart: and you shall find rest to your souls.
For my yoke is sweet and my burden light.
Source: Douay-Rheims Bible (Challoner), Matthew 11:28-30
Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.