One of my close friends recently had a baby. For most people, this new arrival would trigger a whole host of emotions from joy to anxiety. But this friend only seems to experience joy. Despite the significance of the transition before him, he appears unmoved.

Do you know anyone like this? No matter what they experience in life, these people stand firm, focusing on the positive aspects of their circumstances.

Let me be the first to admit that I’m not wired this way. When major transitions come, I often feel overwhelmed, afraid, excited and curious, all at the same time. Can you relate?

Maybe you recently moved across the country. You started a new job, began attending a new church and moved into a new home, all in the past three months. Sure, you’re curious about what lays ahead, but you also feel anxious and exhausted. The weight of your transition has begun to feel increasingly heavy.

Or maybe your mother-in-law recently moved into your home. As her primary caretaker, you spend most your free time by her side: making meals, folding laundry and driving her to and from doctor’s appointments. You love her dearly, but her presence has changed your life dramatically. Where can you turn?

In these moments, you can find a quiet place, crack open your Bible and begin reading God’s Word. And, as you read, you can call out to the Lord in prayer.

These five prayers will get you started:

1. Lord, help me to focus on what lies ahead.
   The one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead.– Philippians 3:13b (GNTD)
2. Lord, help me to trust you with my future.
   The Lord says, “I will teach you the way you should go; I will instruct you and advise you.– Psalm 32:8 (GNTD)
3. Lord, keep me from worrying.
   Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.  And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7 (GNTD)
4. Lord, give me rest when I feel tired.
   “Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest.”– Matthew 11:28-29 (GNTD)
5. Lord, give me strength when I feel weak.
   I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. – Philippians 4:13 (GNTD)