It can seem like there is much to worry about in today's world. But there is one steadfast Unity concept that works every time to allay fear and anxiety: Let it go.

Unity's former poet laureate James Dillet Freeman wrote, “Sometimes we struggle until we are nearly exhausted before we are willing to relax and let God support us.”

Mary Kupferle, a Unity writer, says releasing worries to God is one way of trusting that divine order is at work. In her essay “God Is Taking Care of It,” she states “Wherever you are, God is there in the midst of you, in the midst of people around you, in the midst of the circumstance, in the midst of everyone and everything.” Unity encourages each person to know that God is ever-present. But when people feel stressed, worried, and fearful it is difficult to remember that everything in life—the “good” and the “bad”—is in divine order.

Release Control and Find God's Support

A Unity booklet entitled “Letting Go” explains, “Many of us were raised with the idea that we must ‘take control' of our lives if we are to be successful. Actually, it's the other way around. … The burden of maintaining control becomes almost too much to bear. … It is at this time that letting go becomes a viable option. It's time to say: ‘God, you're in charge now. Guide me. Show the way. I'm ready to follow.'”

Surrender. Wait for Guidance. Give Thanks.

Releasing concerns and fears to God can bring peace and freedom. But how does one begin practicing this simple yet sometimes challenging process? First, slow down and turn within.

Unity minister Paulette Pipe says we need to respond, not react to life's circumstances. Using a London expression she asks, “Why buy a dog and bark yourself? In other words, why pray about your life circumstances, and then run around trying to fix them without waiting for divine guidance?” She encourages people to surrender, totally let go of concerns, and wait. And while waiting, she advises giving thanks in advance for what is unfolding, knowing it is leading to our highest good.

Unity's “Letting Go” booklet describes how to start the process. “The important thing is to take time to let God into your life. Close your eyes and relax. … Begin to think of God, telling yourself quietly: I let go. I let God into my life. Take a deep breath and repeat this thought. …Know that God's wisdom is available to you, ready to guide you and fill you with new understanding.”

The next time you are reacting to life, rather than seeking God's guidance, remember these sage words from Rev. Michael Bernard Beckwith: “Don't tell God about your big problems; tell your problems about your big God.”

For more on letting go, read Let Go! Let God Fill Your Need! by Mary Kupferle. To find comforting words during times of stress, read A Prayer of Faith.