Are our hearts set on the gift or the Giver?

February 2026.

Years ago, in a passing fit of bravery, I volunteered to give the pre-concert talk at one of the LA Phil’s Casual Friday performances at Walt Disney Concert Hall. I had not attempted any public speaking before this, but I thought, how hard can it be? I composed my 5-minute speech, memorized it, practiced it, and promptly decided this had been a horrible idea.

My anxiety grew as the day approached. I was terrified I would lose my nerve, have a memory slip, or trip over my tongue. I realized that the only way I was going to get through this was to stop focusing on the outcome and instead look to God. A Scripture came to mind, from Matthew 6:33. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you.”

Was I prizing a good speech, and not looking like an idiot…more than God’s presence? Could seeking God first, ahead of the outcome I wanted, be the antidote to my anxiety? I decided to repeat that Scripture to myself every time I had a fear thought about the speech. When my thoughts would veer toward all the what if’s and oh no’s, I would stop myself and go through the verse in my mind. I was still saying it under my breath as I walked out on the stage holding the microphone, to greet the audience.

God came through on the promise, and I had more than enough courage, strength, and even joy…as I spoke to the audience. All the things I needed, I was given. What situation is creating anxiety for you right now? What if you personalized Matthew 6:33 and tried it for yourself?