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According to National Alliance on Mental Illness, 40 million adults in the US have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are a group of related conditions, each having unique symptoms. However, all anxiety disorders have one thing in common: persistent, excessive fear or worry in situations that are not threatening. People typically experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Emotional symptoms:

  • Feelings of apprehension or dread
  • Feeling tense or jumpy
  • Restlessness or irritability
  • Anticipating the worst and being watchful for signs of danger

Physical symptoms:

  • Pounding or racing heart and shortness of breath
  • Sweating, tremors and twitches
  • Headaches, fatigue and insomnia
  • Upset stomach, frequent urination or diarrhea

If you will notice in the paragraph above, I underlined a statement. To give anxiety a basic definition, I think we could say it this way. Anxiety is fear of the unknown or worrying about something that may or may not happen. Where do we turn when anxiety takes hold? I am sure there are counselors that could help, but I believe the first person to turn to is the Lord.

Here are two simple things to help us overcome anxiety from a biblical standpoint:

1. Renew Your Mind

Take time to read Philippians 4:4-8. A stable, non-anxious mind thinks biblically and it rests upon the sure foundation of God’s Word. On the other hand, an anxious mind dwells on things that are not God-centered. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: becasue he trusteth in thee.” Isaiah 26:3 “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,” Romans 12:2 Overcoming anxiety begins with our mind focused on Christ.

2. Remember Your Heavenly Father

As Christians, we have a relationship with God the Father through the finished work of His Son, Jesus. “And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for the LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.” Psalms 9:10 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 “Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?”

When we think on these verses we can be reminded that God will take care of us! Anxiety envisions circumstances which may never occur while forgetting the realities of God’s nature which has never changed. As we focus on God’s lovingkindness and faithfulness, we realize we have no need to be anxious. Our Heavenly Father knows what we need, and He has the ability to supply it.