Anxiety
Anxiety - written by Rev. Maxie Anderson
According to Dr. Nicholas Ellen, from the College of Biblical Studies, anxiety is described as the fear of the unknown. Fear is an emotion that is aroused by danger and causes feelings of dread. The first time we see anxiety in the Bible is in the Book of Genisis 3:8 where Adam and Eve hid themselves from God: “They heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord.’’(NASB)
The presence of God in the Garden must have triggered anxiety for Adam and Eve because they did not know how God would respond to their disobedience. God loved them so much that He gave them clothing as they recognized that they were naked (Genesis 3:10). God did not give them the punishment they deserved. King David is another example of one who suffered from anxiety as he felt threatened and overwhelmed. He captured many of his emotions through Psalms:
Psalm 94:19 ‘When my anxious thoughts multiply within me Your consolations delight my soul. “ (NASB)
Psalm 77:1-2 “My voice rises to God, and I will cry aloud. My voice rises to God, and He will hear me.” (NASB)
Addressing Anxiety
Prayer, reading Scripture, and securing an accountability partner to discuss emotions can help alleviate feelings of anxiety. See these Bible verses about anxiety below:
Matthew 6:25-33: Jesus speaks and challenges the people to stop worrying and concentrate on seeking God’s Kingdom. (NASB)M
Matthew 6:34: "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (NASB)
Proverbs 12:25: Anxiety in a man’s heart weights it down, but a good word makes it glad.” (NASB)
Philippians 4:6-7 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your mind in Christ Jesus.” (NASB)
Coming Soon: Faith!