Overcoming AnxietySample

I know I left you on a cliffhanger yesterday with a clear description of the types of fear but no clear action. So today, we’re going to get to the part where we don’t just know more, but we live better as Christ followers.

God knows that we are simple minded, and we need help to achieve and accomplish His commands. It’s why, in Philippians 4:5-7, God gives us some tools to help us as we listen to His command, “Do not be afraid.”

Philippians 4:5-7:

Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.

This isn’t a three step guide - I promised you I wouldn’t reduce it to that - but here are three tools to use as you overcome anxiety:

1. Pray and Ask. Notice, the text doesn’t just say, “when you’re anxious you should pray.” It says, “in everything”! A prayerful life is the building block for a peaceful life, and so, whether you’re praying about finding your lost keys when you’re running late to work or asking God to bring radical healing, be in communication with Him.
2. Make it Known. I can’t tell you how many times I have talked myself out of a moment of prayer because “it’s not important.” Frankly, if it troubles your heart, you need to go to God with it. Not only for a solution, but also so that you can give God control over that area of your life. When you offer up your requests, you are offering up your control. (And spoiler: We’re not very good at being in control!)
3. Remain in Christ. Jesus brings peace to our minds and hearts, but if we don’t know Him, pursue Him, or remain in His ways, it will be quite the challenge to experience His peace. Remaining in Christ means being in prayer, in godly community and mentorship, reading His Word, and doing what He calls you to do.

I am truly excited for you to use these tools and for you to continue to study and know God’s Word. You’re not meant to live with anxiety because Jesus has already overcome all the struggles of this world! Pray in all things, make your requests known to God, and remain in Christ, my friend!

If you enjoyed this Bible plan and want more resources on overcoming anxiety, my friends at Strong Roots Podcast recorded an episode on it. You can check it out here!