Question: What does God say about worry, fear, and anxiety? What can we do?
Answer: The Bible says much about worrying and being afraid. In it, we read that Jesus taught us not to worry. It is alright to be concerned about a present situation and take appropriate action to avoid problems. Concern often has to do with examining a current choice you must make. It’s wise to be concerned enough to correct a possible mistake and plan better for the future. However, worry can develop next, and then, fear! Sometimes it’s about the future and others’ actions, over which we may have little control. The good news, though, is that God does! God is on high; He is in control!
Don’t be anxious (worried) over anything, but in every situation, while thanking God, tell Him your requests. And the peace of God, which transcends all our understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 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 these things. Philippians 4:6-8
Worry is NOT in Jesus’ plan for you, and it’s terrible for your health! As you probably already know, these are just SOME of the BAD effects of worrying and being fearful:
Depression
Poor appetite
Weight loss or gain
Lack of sleep
Reduced job performance
Problems in relationships
Changes in heart rhythm
Constant anxiety
Higher blood sugar
Lowered immune system
Fatigue, and headaches, to name a few. It can make you feel terrible just to read the list!
These problems can all begin with worry and then accelerate into fear.
Here’s the GOOD news! Jesus knew ALL the things people worry about and are afraid of, and he addressed the topic with His followers and a crowd:
Which of you by worrying can add any inches to his height? … So, do not worry, saying, “What will we eat, or drink, or wear?” For unbelievers worry about many things. Your heavenly Father knows what you need. But seek first His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you, as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:27-34
Did you notice that Jesus offered them His comfort that He knew that they faced problems daily? He indicated that having to face problems will continue. He meant, it’s a part of everyday life on earth.
Corrie Ten Boom, a Christian who was a World War II concentration camp survivor, wrote that worrying does not help us be stronger for tomorrow, but that it makes us carry 2 days of worry at a time. She said it only drains us today of our strength. How true!
The answer to worry and being afraid of what might happen?
PRAY, or tell, Jesus what’s on your mind, and trust Him to lead you. Both He and you will deal with it!
The scriptures show that God told people many times not to worry or be afraid:
…Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. I Peter 5:7
Haven’t I commanded you, be strong and have courage. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will hold you up with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
For more on what the Bible says about worry and fear, search those words, along with the word, Bible, on the Internet. God offers us plenty of comfort and peace in His wonderful scriptural record! Turn your eyes from the problems to the problem-solver – JESUS.
In closing, here’s one of my favorites. Trust Jesus and move ahead:
You will keep the person in perfect peace whose mind is focused on you, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3
