At times we all have feelings of worry, nervousness, or being uneased.
These arise when we are concerned about an upcoming event or something with an uncertain outcome like public speaking, an illness, or dealing with people you do not know.
It may arise when you have desire to do something that makes you feel unease like telling someone you love them for the first time or correcting someone.
These feelings make you anxious, causes anxiety.
Constant anxiety is a nervous disorder of excessive uneasiness and apprehension, causing compulsive behavior or panic attacks, which will require professional help.
Does Jesus want us to have anxiety? No.
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus tells his followers do not worry about your life, your physical needs and about tomorrow.
So how do we overcome our anxieties? Peter said this:
1 Peter 5: 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Peter said to humbly trust in God’s mighty hand to deal with your anxiety because you know he cares for his children that obey his will.
So, if you believe that God loves you and you obey his will you do not need to be anxious but trust that it is in his mighty hand.
So, what should we do when anxiety arise? Paul said this:
Philippians 4: 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Paul said the moment you begin to feel anxious you immediately start conversing with God with a thankful heart because you know he loves you and will do what is best for you.
Then share your concerns with him and seek the Holy Spirit to recall what Jesus wants you to do from his teaching and then obey because you know it will guard your heart from responding like the world.
Then you will be overwhelmed by the peace of God.
The world cannot give this kind of peace from anxiety it takes spiritual rebirth by becoming a new creation in Christ, having faith in Jesus and his promise of eternal life with his Father which will give you God’s peace.
Be safe in Jesus
Ps Glenn