My Fight With Anxiety and Faith

by Jim Kilmer

He is good about coming in for his wet food when it begins to get dark.

Neither Buddy nor I were prepared for the abrupt cold snap that came in November. He enjoyed his outdoor romp, but did not come to the garage when the sun sank low.

The thermometer showed temperatures below freezing. I called and called but Buddy did not come home.

I prayed, but could not shake the anxiety I felt. I was afraid I did not have faith since I felt so anxious. I tried claiming promises and then remembered to praise God for answered prayer in the past, and the present and the Future.

Jesus prayed with confidence when He said to the Father, "I know You always hear me."

By this time the temperature was headed for the teens. I read that cats can get hyperthermia when the temp drops below freezing. I tried to make myself believe but anxiety kept getting in the way. I felt guilty for letting Buddy get out when God expects me to be

responsible.   I walked down the stairs to the lower level of the

house praying and confessing my lack of faith, my anxiety, and fears, my neglect.

When I reached the front door level of our split level home I prayed, "It's OK, I leave everything in Your hands Lord, but it sure would be nice if Buddy would come home now."

 I glanced through the glass along the door of the front porch. There was Buddy with wide open eyes and a friendly face. Both Fran and I had tears as I told her about my battle with anxiety, and God's tender mercy.