Stressed, Depressed, Hot MessSample

FREAK NOT

I felt the panic attack coming. Tightness in the chest. Check. Inability to focus. Check. Sweaty palms. Check. Heart rate up. Check.

For those of you who’ve been there, you know that one of the worst feelings on the planet is when you’re in the midst of a panic attack.

I’ve had more than a handful in my life. But, as I’ve dealt with my anxiety, I’ve realized this truth: Scripture has a way of defusing it. When I quote or read Scripture, especially during an attack, God calms me. The demons flee when they hear the Word of God.

God's Word, the Bible, calms the anxious heart and pulls the lowly spirit out of the depths of depression. It does more than that, though.

The Bible is God's voice. When we fall under God's authority in all areas of our lives, God transforms us in ways unimaginable.

God's got a lot to say about that.

Paul writes these words to his young protégé, Timothy, to remind him of the importance of Scripture:

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Paul wants Timothy to remember that God's word is life-changing and useful for us to walk closely with Him. Many of us forget that Paul was referring not only to the letters written by his fellow disciples but the books of the Old Testament.

From hundreds of prophecies fulfilled to archaeological evidence that science supports, the Bible has stood the test of time. Our job is to read it, study it, wrestle with it, and use it to transform our lives, especially as we deal with being stressed, depressed, or a hot mess.

If you suffer from panic attacks, attack back:

1) Breathe.

2) Remind yourself that you’re not dying, that this is a panic attack.

3) Turn on some Christian music that you know has soothed you in the past.

4) Pray Scripture promises: Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 43:1-2; John 8:36; Deuteronomy 31:8.

5) Picture that calm place in your mind, and breathe.