3 Biblical Ways to Calm Anxiety

The book of Philippians gives clear directions.

If you are one of the many who deal with anxiety, you are not alone.

God created us with this emotion. Sometimes, it can keep us from danger, but there are times it can take us off track.

We can become anxious about a situation when we fixate on:

• the worst-case scenario

• every additional problem that might happen

• the amount of stress and extra work the problem creates

• how the issue will negatively affect us emotionally/physically

When this is our mindset, we are thinking in the context of our human capabilities. Instead, we should be looking to the One who has control over everything.

The following Bible passage lays out three steps we can take when anxiety rears its ugly head:

"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. 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 4:6-8 (NKJV)

#1 – Connect with God

We are to petition God with our needs in every situation. Just as a lamp needs a source of power, Christians need to communicate with the Savior. Without prayer, we are not connected to the power source.

#2 – Be Thankful

Even in hard times, believers must make a conscious decision to be thankful. We can overflow with thanksgiving because we have the gift of salvation, and the Holy Spirit will help us through anything. Keeping a thankful spirit helps sustain us through life’s difficulties.

#3 – Focus on Higher Things

Turn your focus to the truth about God. Find comfort and peace in:

• God’s sovereignty (ability to be in control of all things)

• God’s omnipotence (being all-powerful)

• God’s omnipresence (being all-present)

• God’s omniscience (being all-knowing)

When we keep our eyes on Jesus, our anxiety tends to diminish.

If you find yourself nervous, worried, troubled, or fearful, follow the instructions given in Philippians. God will help you find a peace that transcends all understanding.