Mastering Our Emotions: Biblical Principles for Emotional HealthSýnishorn

The Purpose of Emotions: Anxiety

Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression,

But a good word makes it glad. (Proverbs 12:25)

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 understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

There are two important takeaways from Proverbs 12:25 and Philippians 4:6-7 worth noting. First, anxiety and depression occur together at such high rates that many of their symptoms look the same. Second, the treatment for both requires changing thinking patterns to reflect truth (“a good word”) and shifting attention to positive cues. We will talk more about these concepts later.

The word “anxiety” comes from the Greek word merizo, which means “that which causes distracting care.” Anxiety is an emotion that helps us prepare for future events such as an upcoming meeting, a presentation, or a test. Anxiety equips us to shift our attention away from what is happening in the present moment so that we may engage in behaviors that will help us avoid negative outcomes in the future. Examples include studying to prevent failing a test, rehearsing lines to present the right content, and practicing to ensure that we perform well. Imagine if you did not study for an upcoming test or prepare for a job interview. Again, anxiety is useful when we respond to it adaptively.

Just like fear, however, when anxiety occurs too frequently, is out of proportion to the actual threat, is difficult to manage in the situation, lasts longer than the situation calls for, causes us to lose sight of its intended purpose, or prevents us from experiencing the peace of God, it typically leads to avoidance strategies that serve as futile attempts to manage it. Chronic anxiety has a number of manifestations in our thoughts, physical sensations, and behaviors. Examples include frequent panic attacks that are driven by thoughts of danger, headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disruption as a result of chronic worry; avoidance behaviors due to unrealistic thoughts that situations are dangerous; as well as being overly protective toward our children. It should be noted that chronic anxiety can be transmitted from parent to child through modeling behaviors and communicating to children that situations are dangerous.

• Have you noticed a pattern in times of anxiety? What brought it on?
• How does God comfort you in times of anxiety?
• Are there any Scriptures that are a comfort when you are anxious?
• When have you seen or experienced helpful anxiety?