A Godly Perspective on Anxiety

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you; I
will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“Don’t be afraid, just believe.” Mark 5:36

“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Mark 6:50

“Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid… I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 14:27b, 16:33

“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.” Philippians 4:6-7

 

Just in case we aren’t already dealing with stressful circumstances in our own lives, the many forms of media are providing heartbreaking details of war, oppression, sickness, violence and natural disasters all around us. So many potential triggers for anxiety! And as we know, anxiety can become a chronic and self-perpetuating phenomenon, impacting one’s physical, mental, spiritual and relational health.

I wonder if the burdens His children carry grieve Jesus’ heart. What would He say to Christians in today’s world? The same things that He has taught every generation for two thousand years, via God’s Word. Try writing the above verses on cards that you can refer to often. We are so blessed to be able to access the peace of Christ! But we have to nurture and exercise our faith. May this season of Lent be a fresh reminder and opportunity to do just that.

“As long as we are able to trust in God– holding fast in our heart the knowledge that He is able and willing to help those who rest on the Lord Jesus for salvation, in all matters which are for His glory and their good– the heart remains calm and peaceful. It is when we let go of faith in His power or His love that we lose our peace and become troubled.” George Mueller

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we don’t even need to ask for peace and calm in the midst of all that makes us anxious. You have already provided these in abundance, for us to trust in and lay claim to. We thank you, we praise you, we love you.

Amen

Carolyn Rex