Overcoming Anxiety Through Biblical Principles

“Anxiety is a common emotional response to stress, uncertainty, or fear of the future.”

We all feel and experience anxious moments in various situations and circumstances of life. Often our anxiety surfaces not so much from “thinking about the future but from wanting to control it,” as Hugh Prather observed.

Counselors, modern psychology, and various books offer suggestions on how to cope with anxiety. However, the Bible provides time-tested principles and precepts that, when applied, will help us not only manage anxiety but also control and even overcome it.

Consider these texts and the advice offered when you’re feeling anxious.

#1 Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

This text promises that we can find peace through prayer. Worry about nothing. Pray about everything. And be thankful for everything. It sounds simple. But it works.

#2 Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The wise man reminds us that God is sovereign. When Life spins out of control, be advised that He is in control. Even when it doesn’t seem like it. Trusting in the Lord will help calm our fears, lessen our anxiety, and trust in His providence to provide for our needs.

#3 Matthew 6:25-34

After citing our Heavenly Father’s care of His creation, including even the birds of the air, Jesus offered divine counsel addressing anxiety.

Therefore, do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

When we focus on the Kingdom, seek His righteousness, and learn to live one day at a time, we can significantly reduce our anxiety. It’s all about a shift in focus that brings a new perspective to our material and physical concerns.

#4 Psalm 46:10

“Be still and know that I am God.”

In a hectic, harried world filled with noise and clamor, it’s good to step back, be still, relax, and reflect upon God’s presence. We may experience it through the quietness of nature, or through silent meditation, and scripture reading. Be still. Listen. Look. Feel God’s abiding presence.

#5 Isaiah 41:10.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Christians are never promised life free from struggle, pain, or problems. But we are promised that God will be with us. He will not forsake us. And as Peter assures us, we can cast all our care upon Him because God cares (1 Pet. 5:7).

#6 Gal 6:2

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

God’s family, our church family, is an excellent source of strength, encouragement, and support when we are burdened with life’s cares and concerns. Reach out to those who will support you, pray for you, and offer wise advice to guide you through anxious circumstances.

Finally, remember in the words of Corrie ten Boom, “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” Thus, I can proclaim with the Psalmist, “God is my strength.”

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman