Anxiety

January 26th – Colossians 3:2

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Colossians 3:2

The Bible often addresses the importance of having a spiritual mindset. According to the World English Dictionary, a mindset is about the ideas and attitudes with which a person approaches a situation. In life there will be situations beyond our control. And God wants us to look beyond those situations and focus on Him. To give the results and outcomes to Him. Caring about our duty to Him more than our duty to man. Now although it is a good testimony to be dutiful, hardworking, dependable, etc., we have to be careful not to make our priorities pleasing or performing for others. Instead focusing on the bigger picture, seeking guidance from God about our decisions and priorities. Not only is this spiritual mindset important for our day to day circumstances, but also for our grander perspective on life. And by focusing on our eternal purpose and destiny we can be freed! Free from the anxiety of wasteful toil and effort focused on earthly gain and recognition. 

Blessings, Becky

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January 24th – John 14:27

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John 14:27

After suffering a childhood trauma, I was diagnosed with PTSD. And as a result, I know first hand the debilitating effects anxiety can have mentally and physically in a person’s life. Feelings of panic. Spiraling irrational thoughts. And paralyzing fear. I used to deal with the anxiety by hiding myself away from the world. The safe little bubble I created kept the anxiousness at bay. But that’s no way to live. Because God wants us to live full abundant lives. To experience the peace that Jesus died to give us.

I wish I could tell you there was a magic pill, a fool proof therapy, or a sure fire yoga pose to combat fear. But there’s not. Because what works for one may not work for the next. And even as a Christian, I fight the battle of anxiety every day. But I don’t fight it alone. This is a war I wage together with God. The moment I feel the fear start to creep in, I cry out to my Father, sharing with Him every thought and feeling. I visualize His hand firmly gripping mine. And I recite out loud Bible verses reminding me of the Lord’s promise of peace. A promise that tells me if my fears never come to pass, or if my greatest dread is realized, Jesus is there.

We can’t just wish our fears away. We need to act on God’s Word instead of reacting to the situation. Today I challenge you to dig deep in finding the root of your anxiety. Begin with your doctor. Make sure there isn’t an underlying physical issue causing your symptoms. Talk to your minister, rabbi, pastor or priest. Ask around for recommendations for a good counselor. Share your feelings and struggles with those around you. And above all else, turn to the Lord. He loves you and wants to see you living in His peace. A peace, that dries our tears, quiets our fears, rejoices during trials, and sings in suffering.

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January 23rd – Matthew 6:34

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Matthew 6:34

The lyrics to one of my favorite songs go, “One day at a time, sweet Jesus. That’s all I’m asking from You. Just give me the strength to do everyday, what I have to do.” Every day is filled with its own unique challenges and circumstances. And Jesus wants us to focus on each one as it comes without worry for the future. Why? Because the Lord knows that worry causes needless fear and anxiety. Needless because no matter what tomorrow brings, God is already there. He’s there, in control, and working His plans for our good. Our focus should be on the day at hand. And trusting in God every moment of every day to supply all we need to get through it in victory. Now that doesn’t mean we don’t plan for the future. But what it does mean is that we shouldn’t let the worry about that future rob us of the joy from God’s gift of today.

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January 22nd – Psalm 27:3

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Psalm 27:3

With the days growing darker and the enemies of Christians closing in on all sides, how can we not fear? King David felt that same type of fear. In the over 20 years after being anointed to actually taking the throne, he too faced enemies from every side. Yet with confidence David declared, “Whom shall I fear?” How could David be so fearless? Because he knew that neither his own strength, nor his cleverness could save him. No the king of Israel knew his deliverance would only come from the Lord. And David trusted that as he followed in obedience, the Lord would defend him at every turn. For David knew the love God had for him, and put his security in that love. God also loves us with the same intensity. And we can rest securely in the knowledge that God’s love will protect us no matter what. So we too can boldly say, “Though my enemies surround me, my heart will not fear!”

January 22nd – Psalm 27:3 Read More »

January 16th – Psalm 112:7

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Psalm 112:7

One of the most dreaded phrases to hear is, “I have good news and bad news. Which do you want to hear first?” When someone says that to us our first reaction is to panic. Because even though there is good, the bad is what we focus on. However for Christians, no matter what we hear, we needn’t be fearful. And instead of being reactive, we can be proactive. How? By trusting in the Lord. Because those whose hearts remain fixed on the truth of God can never be shaken. And no darkness of fear, dread, panic, or despair can extinguish the light of God’s promise. A promise to see us through any situation, good or bad. A promise that the great I Am is in control of all things. And He will never let us face anything alone. So no matter how bad the evil tidings, our heart can still rejoice. For our confidence is found in the Lord alone. And in the Good News He brings to all.

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January 15th – 1 Peter 3:14

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1 Peter 3:14

No one is immune to the feelings of fear and anxiety. Not even the apostle Peter. Throughout the ministry of Christ, Peter was by His side helping, learning, and personally seeing the miracles our Lord performed. Even so, when confronted by an angry crowd after the arrest of Jesus, Peter denied knowing his Savior. And not once, but three times. Why? Because fear, even for a disciple, isn’t easy to overcome. Not easy, but not impossible when we work in God’s power instead of our own. It is God’s power that allows us to live differently from the world. For when we sanctify Christ in our hearts, we need ‘t be troubled. For the Lord gives us a peace that nothing and no one can take away. And by keeping our focus on God we can, like Peter, walk safely on the most troubled waters hand in hand with the Lord.

 

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January 13th – Matthew 6:25

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Matthew 6:25

For the past two hears, humanity has been involved in the turmoil of the pandemic. And the anxiety it’s caused has taken its toll in the lives of so many people! But we cannot let it oppress us nor enslave us! For there is a solution. And in God’s Word, Jesus taught His followers, who were also dealing with oppression, the steps to follow. Yes we should stop being worried, uneasy, and distracted. You might say it is easier said than done, but when you realize WHO you are putting your trust in, than you can freely rest on Him and put ALL your confidence in your Heavenly Father!

When we are worried and anxious about the material things of life we behave like pagans. Like idol worshippers, we set our trust on our own efforts and set out hearts on our needs. But our Heavenly Father knows exactly what we need, and in the exact time He will provide. But we need to trust Him enough to let go. What is distracting you from receiving the blessings of His Provision for each aspect of your life? Blessings, Mari

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January 12th – Psalm 25:5

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Psalm 25:5

For some, anxiety is brought on by worrying about the future or how future events will unfold. For Christians, we know that our eternal future is secured because Jesus settled that on the cross long ago. He is the God of our salvation. Each moment that passes between today and our last physical breath will be a journey that shapes our preparation for Heaven and our influence on this Earth.

No two lives will be the same and there are many obstacles and deceptions that the enemy will place in our path to make us falter, stumble and lose our way. The Psalmist knew that it was foolish to try and navigate life on his own. He knew that it was best to trust in the guidance of God. God wants us to be teachable in all of the moments and events that make up our lives. He wants to help us recognize truth and avoid deception. 

God also wants us to trust His timing. That can be hard for those of us who get anxious when things seem chaotic and we want to rush in to “fix” or handle a situation on our own. So many times I have been amazed to discover that when I place something in God’s hands and relinquish the details and outcomes to Him, He  gives me peace and He shows me His mighty hand at work. Sometimes He works to change the circumstances and sometimes He works within those circumstances to change me.  Either way, I am learning as the Psalmist that it’s always best to wait for the Lord….Becky

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January 11th – 1 chronicles 16:34

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1 Chronicles 16:34

Did you know there is great power found in a grateful heart? It’s true, and they have research to prove it! “Scientific studies have proven gratitude increases neural modulation in the brain, in the prefrontal cortex, which regulates negative emotions. It also activates dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for making you feel good.” That’s scientific talk that basically states that the results of maintaining an attitude of gratitude is instant happiness that will prompt you to continue to giving thanks.

A good friend of mine once confessed that she had been hospitalized due to a nervous breakdown and what helped her most to recover was reading her Bible and writing down 12 things she was thankful for in a journal each day- a practice she still swears by and practices today!

Gratitude also curbs other symptoms of anxiety, helping us to deal with the disorder more effectively according to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information in the United States.

  • It can reduce Insomnia
  • Reduces stress hormones in the body
  • And can positively impact bodily functions, memory, and emotions.

 BUT more importantly, giving thanks is something that each one of us are commanded to practice on a daily basis; anxiety, or no anxiety. (Phil. 4:6-7, Col. 3:15, 1 Thes. 5:16-18, and many others)

So, How Can We Best Practice Maintaining an Attitude of Gratitude? 

(These are just a few suggestions and if you have any other proven habits, I hope you’ll share them with us as well)

1.) Keep a Journal

Write down all that is causing any anxiety, sadness, fear, etc. And then find at least 3 things to be thankful for right now. Even if it’s, ‘I’m thankful I woke up and I’m still breathing!’

2.)  Stop to Meditate

“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.” – Phil. 4:8

 Focus on all the good things in your life and start thanking God for each. You’ll eventually become a thankful person by nature.

3.) Share Your Gratitude with Others 

This may seem silly, but it goes a long way towards practicing gratitude.

Writing down your thoughts,  dwelling on the positives and then sharing your positive thoughts with God and others will go along way to develop an attitude of gratitude and squelch all those anxious thoughts that try to take over.

Blessings,

sue

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January 10th – James 4:8

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James 4:8

What if I told you that fear is a sin? How? Because fear stems from pride. And pride submits to no one, thinking we ourselves know best. It’s the same with fear. When we let fear dictate our actions, we’re telling God we trust more in that fear than in His promises. So how do we knock fear off the throne in our lives? In writing his letter to the Jews, James gives us the tools. Humility and faith. Humility is never an easy pill to swallow. Because admitting we are wrong, being vulnerable and submitting is hard. But when we come to God with a truly humble heart, He welcomes us with open arms, inviting us to draw near to Him. To in faith, leave our fear at the door and safely shelter in His mighty fortress. An impenetrable fortress of power, mercy, and wisdom. So draw near to Him, and lay your fears at the feet of Jesus. Give Him your sorrows, worries, tears, and anxiety. Receive His healing of your heart and mind, and walk in the Lord’s freedom!

 

 

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