21 Days of Fasting and Prayer: Let It RainSample

Battling Anxiety

Over the last several years, the increase in anxiety in our society has surfaced at an alarming rate. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the most common mental illness in the U.S. is anxiety disorder, affecting nearly one in five adults every year. The New York Times reported that Americans are the most stressed people in the world, causing us to spend billions of dollars on anti-anxiety medications a year, and the trend is only forecasted to grow.

The Bible has much to say about anxiety. One of the most encouraging passages is found in 1 Peter 5:7, which tells us to "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you" (NIV).

In Greek, the word "cast" means "to cause responsibility for something to be upon someone." In this passage, we are literally instructed to take our anxiety and place it upon Jesus. All of our needs, fears, and everything that tries to rob us of peace can be left at the feet of Jesus.

It's sufficient to say that anyone struggling with anxiety would love to simply cast their cares on Christ. But the question is, how do we effectively do that?

The Apostle Paul provides a very practical way to accomplish this. He writes to the Philippians, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6).

Paul tells us that the most effective way to overcome anxiety is by being in God's presence. But he also provides another key to defeating anxiety: thanksgiving and gratitude. We don't just bring our problems to God; we bring our gratitude. Studies show that the most grateful people are the ones who experience the most joy. It's great to have a prayer list, but it's equally important to have a grateful list. Before you ask God to work in your life, thank Him for what He's done and continues to do.

Paul goes on to write: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things" (Philippians 4:8).

Now Paul provides instruction about our thoughts because he understands that anxiety is the result of unhealthy thought patterns. Instead of focusing on the problem and the unlikely negative events coming in your future, focus on the right things. Anxiety is defeated when we align our minds with the mind of God.

Then Paul tells us the results: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:7).