A Prayer to Help Me Stop Overthinking
By Kristine Brown
“Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.” Colossians 3:2 NLT
I’m a classic overthinker. Give me a problem to solve, and I’ll come up with every outcome imaginable. This character trait comes in handy when my child forgets about a project due tomorrow. Or when I’m trying to fit all the family’s activities into one cohesive calendar. But when I’m facing deeper issues, my overthinking can lead to worry and stress.
I’ll fret over a problem until exhaustion takes over, getting no closer to an answer. Because even though I know I can’t solve it on my own, I struggle with giving my cares to God and letting go.
Have you ever thought and thought about a problem until you worried yourself sick? I’ve been there, and I’ve felt the effects that worry and stress can have on our physical bodies and on the lives of our loved ones. But God’s powerful Word in Colossians 3:2 shows us a better way to occupy our minds, “Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.”
In chapter 3 of Colossians, the apostle Paul gave believers unquestionable direction for how to live their lives. He offered a mindset shift.
Paul showed the church what mattered most as new Christians, “Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us.” (Colossians 3:11b) He pointed them away from sinful desires and encouraged them to clothe themselves in “tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
Paul’s letter still applies to our lives today— when sinful desires tempt us or when we focus too intently on our worldly problems rather than our heavenly hope. “Focusing on the things of heaven” can be our battle cry when we fall into the trap of overthinking.
Turning our thoughts to Jesus calms our weary hearts and relieves the heaviness of carrying the weight of our problems. We will discover less stress and more peace when we stop overthinking and focus on God and his goodness. Let’s begin with this prayer.
Let’s pray:
Dear Lord,
I’ve been worrying again. I’ve let my problems consume me, and I’ve forgotten to give my cares to you in prayer. Forgive me, Lord, for focusing too much on my circumstances. Help me stop overthinking everything and trust you in all things.
I know you created me with unique traits and abilities. I want to help and to serve others, but my overthinking can get in the way. I spend time trying to solve problems rather than trusting you. Help me remember the truth of your promises when I’m tempted to worry. Help me remember to, “think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.” (Colossians 3:2)
You are a loving and faithful Father. 1 Corinthians 1:9 (NIV) shows me this, “God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” Thinking about your faithfulness brings joy and peace to my weary heart. Stress fades away when I focus on who you are rather than on my problems. I trust you in all things because you are good. Have your way in my life, God.
In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
Photo credit: ©Getty Images/tommaso79
Related Resource: "I AM" - A Lenten Journey with Jesus
When the world feels heavy, clarity isn’t always what we need most. Sometimes what we need is presence. In John 8:12, Jesus doesn’t promise all the answers. He promises Himself: “I am the light of the world.” Light doesn’t show us the entire path—it gives us enough to take the next step. It reminds us that we are not alone in the dark, and that God is present with us even when things feel uncertain. I’m praying this meditation reminds you that Jesus is present—and you don’t have to walk in the dark alone. This week’s guided Scripture meditation is part of my larger Lent series that invites you to slow down, listen, and follow the Light who leads to life.
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Originally published Saturday, 04 March 2023.
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