3 Tips for Christians Experiencing Anxiety

I believe life can be seen as one big obstacle course comprised of hurdles, balancing acts and speed challenges. Each and every year that passes, the obstacle course gets more and more difficult. It’s very easy to see why people have such a hard time adapting to these standards. Society expects so much out of us, and our minds and bodies can only take so much before we find ourselves at the end of our rope. How can we better manage this? What can we do before going into panic mode in regards to circumstances we may not have control over?

1. Seek God first.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

I believe our first priority when we feel panicked is to seek God. It’s important to understand that we should speak to God as often as possible, even when we are not stressed or undergoing a trial. I believe God needs to be given the time and attention He deserves regardless. We should not only praise Him during our storm, but when we have clear skies as well. Pray to Him. Tell Him why you are stressed and what it is He wants you to do in order to simplify the situation. Remember, God knows all — He knows the past, the present and the future. He knows each and every solution to every problem we have or ever will experience.

2. Delve into His word.

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4:12

God’s Word is an infinite source of knowledge and comfort for me and many others. Additionally, studying His Word allows Christians to become closer with God. I believe we are given the tool in order to strengthen our relationship with our Father and also to learn what God’s will is for us. We may be stuck in panic mode because we are trying to figure everything out for ourselves. We have to keep in mind that God knows us better than we know ourselves and I believe that includes knowing what is best for us — even if we may not agree or understand. God never changes. He is one person we can always rely on that doesn’t act a certain way one day, and then changes His behavior the next. He is always honest, and thus His Word is always true. Reading the Bible isn’t like going to Barnes and Noble and picking out a random novel about mythical beings with powers. I know God is very much real and alive, as are His actions and abilities. I believe he has an impeccably positive reputation.

3. Utilize your church family

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Speaking from personal experience, I’ve learned so much from my church family during times I was going through a rough season. I often have a lot of questions I may not understand concerning God. Some of which include: Why I’m going through this? Why can’t I hear Him? Why am I being made to wait so long? The Bible instructs us to utilize the elders in our church when we need advice.

“Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” James 5:14

I believe the best way to understand this would be to refer back to when you were a student. The teacher is older and has more experience on a subject. Therefore, if you wish to learn more about God, ask questions about issues you may be dealing with concerning life. You can also obtain guidance — approaching an elder of your church is extremely beneficial. I’ve done this countless of times, and not only has it provided me with wisdom I needed, but the elders were able to guide and encourage me in a way that prevented me from pressing that panic button.

There’s a powerful verse in the Bible I often refer back to when the panic button is too much of a temptation. It goes back to trust and giving all concerns and troubles over to God. Our Father has told us not to worry about anything, but to give all of our troubles and concerns over to Him to take care of. It’s often a very hard command to obey, but we have to remind ourselves that He has everything already planned out and resolved for us.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

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Unsplash photo via Austin Thesing.