Fear and AnxietySample

Same problem, same solution

From when I was a child until now, so much has changed in the world. One sign of our current times is the focus on mental health and wellbeing. Stress, anxiety, and depression are labels that seem to fit all too many of us. And why wouldn’t it? There’s the financial crisis, the threat of war, the ever-changing rules in society, and the daily challenges.

Though it seems to be a bit of a buzz right now, these challenges are not new. As Ecclesiastes repeats, ‘There is nothing new under the sun’ (1:9).

In scripture, we first see the words, ‘Do not be afraid,’ in Genesis 15:1. From the very beginning, people have succumbed to fear and its consequent strong association with anxiety and worry.

‘Do not fear,’ ‘Be anxious for nothing,’ and ‘Do not worry’ are all phrases we repeatedly hear as the Bible gives us insight into the best way to live. So, what does the Bible offer as the solution? After all, you can’t just say, ‘Don’t be afraid,’ and magically have the feeling stop.

The familiar and comforting words of Psalm 23:4 give us a glimpse. One solution to this age-old problem of fear and anxiety is trust. Trust that God is who He says He is, will do what He says He will do and is with us in all things. When we fix our eyes firmly on Him, it’s hard for fear to get a foothold.

Where is fear, anxiety, or worry winning in your life? May you know that He is with you, and be comforted.

Written by SUSIE HOLT