It’s safe to say that everyone has experienced anxiety at some point in their lives. After all, it is a natural response to stressful situations especially those outside of our control.
According to Cambridge Dictionary, anxiety is defined as “an uncomfortable feeling of nervousness or worry about something that is happening or might happen in the future”. We might get anxious about biopsy results, traveling overseas or starting a new job. The uncertainty and fear of the unknown causes us to worry. There are times where it can be so crippling and debilitating that it prevents us from functioning normally.
Effects of Anxiety & Worrying
Spiritual
Worrying exposes a lack of trust in God. If we had faith that God would work out the situation then we would not worry or be anxious. Not only does this displease God, but it can hinder His ability to work in our lives as we may attempt to fix the issue on our own instead of turning to Him. God says without faith it is impossible to please Him (Hebrews 11: 6) and worrying is the opposite of faith.
Social
Our social life may be affected as we may become withdrawn from friends and family. Since anxiety can be so draining it can leave us with little energy for social interactions which can put a strain on our relationships. We may not be able to connect with persons as we are consumed by the situations that affect us.
Mental
Anxiety robs us of our joy and peace of mind. We are left with a slew of negative emotions such as anguish, despair or hopelessness. It clouds our judgement making it difficult to find possible solutions or alternatives to our situation which leads to more despair. This creates a vicious never ending cycle.
Physical
When left unchecked anxiety can begin to manifest in physical symptoms. According to the World Health Organization 4% of the world’s population or approximately 301 million persons had an anxiety disorder in 2019. Symptoms of anxiety disorder include nausea or abdominal distress, heart palpitations, sweating, trembling or shaking and difficulty sleeping.
Jesus Sets Us Free From Worry & Anxiety
Jesus in His sermon on the mount, advised against worrying, he said “which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?” (Matthew 6: 27). Nothing good comes from worrying; it does not change the situation, it only brings anguish and despair. In fact, worry and anxiety are weapons the enemy uses against us to distract us and keep us from living a full life in Christ Jesus. In John 10:10, Jesus said “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly”.
It’s not God’s will for us to be burdened. When Jesus died on the cross he not only took away our sins but he also died to set us free from the things that hold us captive. Luke 4: 18 states “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed”.
Bible Verses to Overcome Worry & Anxiety
- “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;” Proverbs 3:5
- “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7
- “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5: 7
- “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11: 29-30
You do not have to be captive to worry and anxiety, use the scriptures to overcome!
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