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Phone: 01825 769000 | Email: [email protected]
Anxiety is something many of us carry, quietly and heavily. It doesn’t always show itself in obvious ways. Sometimes it’s the racing thoughts at night, the knot in your stomach on the way to work, or the constant hum of “what ifs” you can’t quite shake.
In church settings, we often hear well-meaning encouragements like, “just pray it away” or “don’t worry, God’s in control.” Those words come from a kind place, but if you’ve ever lived with anxiety, you’ll know it isn’t always that simple.
Let's look at the topic of anxiety through the framework of scripture and what the Bible says about feeling anxious.
The good news is that God’s Word doesn’t ignore our worries - it names them honestly:
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” — Proverbs 12:25
“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” — Psalm 94:19
Notice that these verses don’t pretend anxiety doesn’t exist. Instead, they remind us that God cares deeply and invites us to bring it to Him.
Takeaway: Don’t feel guilty for being anxious. Instead, try turning your worries into prayers—name them, and hand them over to God.
Philippians 4:6–7 says:
“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.”
This isn’t telling us we’ll never feel anxious. It’s showing us what to do when anxiety comes—bring it to God and allow His peace to meet us there. Faith doesn’t mean we never struggle. It means we keep choosing to trust, even in the middle of the storm.
Takeaway: The next time you feel anxious, pause and breathe. Say a short prayer: “Lord, I give this to You. Guard my heart and mind with Your peace.”
Prayer is powerful, but God also provides practical ways of finding healing. That might look like talking to a counsellor, seeing a doctor, practising rest, or leaning on a trusted friend. James 1:17 reminds us: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” That includes the wisdom of others, medicine, and the gift of community.
Takeaway: If anxiety feels too heavy to carry alone, reach out for help. That’s not a lack of faith—it’s a wise and faithful step.
Anxiety often makes us feel isolated, but God’s promises tell a different story:
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” — Isaiah 41:10
“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
Even when your thoughts feel overwhelming, God is still near, holding you through it all.
Takeaway: Choose one verse about God’s presence and carry it with you this week. Repeat it whenever worry begins to spiral.
If you live with anxiety, please hear this: your faith is not weak because you struggle. Being anxious doesn’t make you less of a Christian - it makes you human. And it makes you deeply loved by a God who sees you, cares for you, and walks with you.
If you’re supporting someone with anxiety, remember this: you don’t always need the perfect words. Sometimes the kindest, most Christlike thing you can do is simply be there: listen, sit with them, and remind them by your presence, “You’re not alone.”
Write down one anxious thought each day and pray through it, using 1 Peter 5:7.
Memorise Philippians 4:6–7 and speak it over yourself when worry surfaces.
Reach out to a friend, mentor, or professional - don’t carry the weight by yourself.
