Anxiety is a type of disorder that brings on feelings of fearfulness and uncertainty and affects many people, including those who are walking with Christ. Even when we read in Philippians 4:6, “Do not be anxious about anything,” many of us still feel the weight of this overwhelming emotion. The good news is that you are not alone in your struggle with anxiety, and God doesn’t desire His children to live with this very real and sometimes frightening state, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7).
Anxiety can be situational in life (before a major life event, dealing with many stressors at one time), but it can also be something that an individual struggles with throughout their life, at varying levels. It is often driven by fear or worry, and can be a very crippling when faced alone. Proverbs 12:25 says that, “Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” The weight of this anxiety can keep us from living in the freedom that Jesus has called us to live in.
Often times, anxiety can be linked with control (or lack thereof), overwhelming circumstances, traumatic events, genetic predisposition, or a variety of internal or environmental stressors. Life can be a lot to handle at times, and we weren’t made to handle it alone. This is the good news. As Christians, we are told to, “Cast all of your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1Peter 5:7). When you are feeling like you are unable to carry the burden of anxiety, do not fear! You weren’t meant to carry it, and God wants to help you through it. He also promises to walk you through it, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8).
Next Steps:
First, be open with God about your struggle. Be open with Him about your need for help. Second, talk to a godly person you know and trust. Setting up an appointment with a Christian counselor can help you through the process.
Lay Counseling
Professional Counselors
Related Resources:
- Battling Unbelief, by John Piper
- The Anxiety Cure, by Dr. Archibald Hart
If you would like to talk to someone further about Anxiety