Scriptures to Fight Anxiety
As I war against the continuing influence of my depravity, one of the chief sins I wrestle with is anxiety. And the more I talk to other believers, the more I realize just how common this struggle is, which is not a surprise in light of 1 Corinthians 10:13. Whether it is worry over tomorrow’s provision, insecurity in our relationships, or fear that cripples our decision-making, unbelief is at the root of the many forms of our anxiety. Since this is true, one of the most helpful methods of combat is the nurturing of our faith by meditating on God’s truth. Here are just a few Scriptures that I find helpful in the battle against anxiety. I hope they encourage you too.
- Proverbs 18:10. “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.” When overcome with anxiety, speak to yourself the names of God. Think upon His glorious attributes.
- Isaiah 43:2. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” Just meditate on this amazing promise. Receive the help of His presence (Ps 42:5).
- Matthew 6:25-34. This passage of Scripture directs us to shift our focus from ourselves and all our earthly worries to the goodness and faithfulness of God to provide for all our needs (not our “greeds”). Beholding the wonders of creation encourages us to meditate on God—the only One who can truly relieve our fears.
- 1 John 4:18-19 “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us.” This Scripture teaches us that the antidote for fear is love. Anxiety, especially in the sin-form of insecurity, is self-centered. As we die to self and live for others we overcome our fears.
- Philippians 4:6-8. Thankful prayer, in which we cast all our cares upon the Lord because He cares for us (1 Pet 5:7), stands as a century at the door of our heart, refusing to allow anxiety to re-enter.
- Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus invites us to yoke all our worries to His strong shoulders. He alone can carry the burden for us. In Him we find true rest.
Learn more about how to use Scripture to renew your mind, read the book Counseling One Another.
