It’s been a long time since I can remember not worrying about something. After all, I am a mom of many: my husband and I have fostered 45 children and adopted seven.

On any given day, I find myself anxious about my youngest son, who struggles with dyslexia. I wonder if my young adult children are making wise choices. I’m concerned about money. And I worry that I’m worrying too much.

These concerns often flood my thoughts during the stillness of night, when I need to be at rest. After many sleepless nights and tired days, I knew I had to develop a strategy. I recognized that fretting would do nothing except rob me of sleep, so I decided to prepare a list of comforting Scriptures for my bedside table. The next time a concern presented itself to me, I turned my mind to Scripture and presented the worry to the Lord.

My prayers weren’t elaborate or wordy; they were simple and heartfelt. I gave myself permission to let the concern be, not trying to fix it or even understand it. After releasing my fear, I often found myself slipping into a peaceful state. I was able to rest undisturbed as I trusted the Lord. Spending this time in the presence of God helped me adjust my focus and quiet my troubled heart. Through prayer, I found the capacity to share my fear and anxiety with the Lord. And I found the strength to accept God’s peace.

When I lay awake with my worries, I found peace by focusing on these four Bible verses:

1. Psalm 4:8 (GNTD)
   “When I lie down, I go to sleep in peace; you alone, O Lord, keep me perfectly safe.”
2. James 1:5 (GNTD)
   “But if any of you lack wisdom, you should pray to God, who will give it to you; because God gives generously to all.”
3. Matthew 6:34 (GNTD)
   “So do not worry about tomorrow; it will have enough worries of its own. There is no need to add to the troubles each day brings.”
4. Proverbs 12:25 (GNTD)
   “Worry can rob you of happiness, but kind words will cheer you up.”