Anxiety may seem like it is new, but it has actually been a part of the human experience for quite a while. Think back to Adam and Eve. Once they became aware of their nakedness, an unhealthy fear of God caused them to hide in the garden.
The truth is, these days, we’re becoming more aware of anxiety.
In the Bible, God commanded us not to fear more than 365 times. He knew we would experience anxiety, fear and worry, so He gave us strategies to overcome.
Anxiety and worry stem from a fear of loss of control. Thankfully, whenever we are tempted, God always provides a way out.
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Battle anxiety, worry and fear with these seven tips.
- First, we must recognize that fear, worry and anxiety exist. In Hosea 4:6, the Word says, “my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.”
- When your thoughts become anxious, fearful or worrisome, recognize that those thoughts are not your thoughts. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12
- Ask God where these anxious thoughts are coming from. God is faithful. When we ask, He will guide us into all truth. So ask Him, “where are these fearful thoughts coming from?” “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” John 16:13
- Fight back against the enemy with the truth of God’s word. “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
- Talk back to anxiety! Every time you are tempted, proclaim that truth out loud. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17
- Don’t worry! Trust God to handle your situation. And, thank Him in advance for answering your prayers. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
- Stand firm against the enemy. Tell him to leave you alone and send him back to the pit he came from. “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.” Matthew 16:23 and “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
Fear, worry and anxiety do not come from God. What He gives us is so much better. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Let it go. Cast all your worries upon the Lord for He cares for you.
Have you ever struggled with worry, fear or anxiety? Would you like to share your story? It may be included in my latest book being written now! For your chance to be selected, please send me a message by Thursday, July 5, 2018. Use the contact form here: Contact Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Because of Him, #PeacePrevails!
For a Free eBook on How to Help a Depressed Loved One, click here: How to Help a Depressed Loved One eBook.
For more helpful information about what you need to know when you have a depressed loved one, read here: https://drmichellebengtson.com/10-things-to-know-if-you-have-a-depressed-loved-one/
For more about what not to say to a depressed loved one, read here: https://drmichellebengtson.com/what-not-to-say-when-a-loved-one-is-depressed/ while here are suggestions about supportive things you can say to a depressed loved one: https://drmichellebengtson.com/what-to-say-when-a-loved-one-is-depressed/
To learn more about “Hope Prevails: Insights From a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression,” Dr. Bengtson’s book, see: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book.
And, for the Bible Study, see: https://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-bible-study/.
