Anxious

“Don’t be anxious.” That’s easy to say if you’re not feeling anxious. But to someone struggling with anxiety, saying, “Don’t be anxious” is like saying, “Don’t feel the shirt on your skin.” Now that I’m thinking about it, it’s all I feel.

There are a lot of factors that can play into anxiety and depression. Certainly reading a Bible passage to someone won’t take it away automatically. It’s interesting, though, what the Bible says when it encourages us to not be anxious. God, in his Word, invites us to pray, to plead with him, to focus on gratitude, and leave it all to him. And God promises peace. That peace is a big, deep breath knowing that God’s not mad at his children. It’s a peace that transcends the things that torment our minds and hearts. It’s a peace found at Jesus’ cross and empty tomb. It’s a peace that guards our hearts and minds so prone to worry and fear.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, you don’t have to go through this alone. Call Cross of Christ (208-375-3992) and request a phone call from a pastor. Go to christianfamilysolutions.org to make use of video counseling that can be covered by insurance. Talk to Christian friends and family who will encourage you.

Most of all, you don’t have to go through this alone because you have the God of the universe here with you. He will strengthen you. He will help you. He will walk through this with you. He doesn’t just give you cliché religious thoughts. He listens to your every prayer. He speaks grace. And he gives you his peace.

“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” (Philippians 4:6-7).