The Answer to Anxiety
WRITTEN BY DREW MATZ
How Scripture Can Help
Anxiety is something that vexes us in today’s complex social and political climate. It weighs heavily on our lives, careers, and relationships. And while those with anxiety tend to place the burden upon their own shoulders, it is easy for anxiety to spill over into the areas of our lives where others are most vulnerable.
While some anxiety is certainly self-imposed, God does not want us to live in this constant state of distress. He gets that human beings are dealing with a principally spiritual condition, a condition that is rooted, first and foremost, in separation from God. Because of this, he longs to ascend to us and reach us where we are.
Here are a few scriptural lessons that remind us that God is there and will uphold us:
1. Give Yourself Space
But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
Luke 5:15-16
For everything, there is a time and place. In some instances, we just need to take a step back for prayer and reflection. At times, even Jesus retreated to quiet places for prayer and meditation. Within moderation, it is a good idea for us to retreat away from the pressures of life in order that we might find rest in the presence of God.
2. Stay in Conversation with God
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Anxiety is always rooted in some sort of insecurity, even if we aren’t cognizant of it. In light of our desperate need for God, Paul wants us to think of prayer in a different way. For Paul, prayer isn’t something we “do,” but is something we constantly subsist in. Instead of setting time aside for it, practice praying at all times and in all places – taking everything as a petition to God. When we practice prayer as a lifestyle, we begin to train our minds to think differently.
3. Go in Peace
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
We sometimes get anxiety over where we stand before God. Yet, we can hide nothing from God, who sees into our inmost being (1 Sam 16:7). However, God is not waiting to punish you. He loves you as a caring Father, and he desires all to be saved and come to knowledge of the truth (1 Tim 2:4). Thus, cast off all fears and confidently turn to the Lord. Cast your burdens upon him, for he longs to uphold you and make straight paths that you should walk in them.
