Sharing Your Friends with God

Our world promises us a lot of “solutions†to anxiety: “Read this book! Use this blanket! Listen to this song! Exercise for one hour each day! Eat more of this! Buy this wristband!â€

The problem is, in our broken world, there is no one, easy solution to anxiety. For some, it is a lifelong medical issue and often requires counseling, medication, and other treatment. But, no matter how severe or long-lasting, we are not alone in our anxiety. Many people from all backgrounds—including Christians—struggle with anxiety, and there are steps we can take toward healing. And, in Christ, we have lots of hope! Jesus taught us that the truth brings freedom (John 8:32). He knows what it’s like to suffer as a human, so we can come to Him with honesty about anything we’re facing (Hebrews 4:14-16).

That’s why a big part of living in the truth is opening up. Talk with God and trusted people in your life, such as counselors, pastors, members of your church family, etc. Finding healing from anxiety can’t happen in isolation. God made us for community with Himself and others; in Christ, we find that community (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:18; Matthew 22:36-40; Galatians 6:1-10; Revelation 21:1-5). Trusted people in your life can (1) help you learn to distinguish the truth from anxiety’s lies and (2) pray with you as you seek to rest in the promises of Jesus.

Filling yourself with the truth of those promises is central to battling anxiety. In Christ, we are promised His peace no matter what we face—because “we have peace with God†(John 14:27; Romans 5:1). Jesus promises to always be with us and to work all things for His good kingdom purposes (Matthew 28:20; Romans 8:28). Jesus, through His death and resurrection, overcame sin and the world (John 16:33). By relying on Him, we can know anxiety doesn’t have the last word because Jesus will one day completely destroy all sin and death (Revelation 21:4). In the meantime, we can rest in His power to overcome anxiety (Matthew 11:28). • Abby Ciona

• What hope do we have in Jesus—no matter what we face?

• If you need someone to talk to about anxiety, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Read Verses:

2 Thessalonians 1:1-3, 11-12