Whatever Is Lovely

Cait Winters discusses how worried moms can find Christ’s peace in a turbulent world.

In a world of sensationalized headlines and even scarier realities, where do you turn? I find, as a mom of four children of all ages and stages, that worry can strike at any moment. In good times and bad, it’s always just below the surface. I can worry about little things like my son tripping over the shoes he always (intentionally) puts on the wrong feet, and bigger things like our oldest daughter learning how to drive. 

Worries can stretch backward: “Did I do this right?” and forward: “Will this work out for us?” They can reach from my backyard garden being eaten by rabbits to people across the world living in poverty and working in dangerous conditions. Worry can extend from concern for my friends to the problems of strangers. With so much to worry about, and much time spent indulging in it, I have learned that worry is a choice.  

What Is the Alternative to Worry? 

So, what is the alternative? I turn my attention from the worries of the world to the words and works of Jesus, the Prince of Peace! So much of what I worry about is out of my control. I try to grasp as much as possible, but the sense of control it can give me is just an illusion. The reality is that God is providential. I may not know what’s up ahead, but Jesus does. 

Instead of worrying myself weary again and again, I’ve learned to simply pray. When I lay my concerns on Jesus’ Sacred Heart, He replaces them with a peace that surpasses all understanding. My past, future and present, my family and friends, the world and its problems are better left in His more-than capable hands than in my own anxious thoughts. I care about all of these things, but not as much as Him.   

Priceless Advice About What to Keep in Mind  

I try to remember the advice of Saint Paul the Apostle to the church of Phillipi:  

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)  

This advice is priceless and has helped me out more times than I can remember. It reminds me that I am able to choose which thoughts or emotions I hold on to (2 Corinthians 10:5). Worry is not only grossly unproductive, but it also makes for an unhappy countenance. When I let go of control, my hands are free to praise, my soul is free to smile, and my mind is free to focus on the things I can affect.  

Lovely Thoughts Create a Lovely Reality 

When I put good thoughts in, good things come out. The result is that I become someone more calm, more inspired, more grateful and charitable. It’s not only pleasing to the Lord, but myself as well. This is the type of person I desire to be each day. Letting go of worry is about trusting God, and that’s always a sure thing! 

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Copyright 2025 Cait Winters
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