The world around us can get stressful. We have become a society of being “honest” to the extent that it doesn’t matter if it’s true but it’s that person’s opinion. Opinions have become facts. I don’t know about you, but a lot of this causes me anxiety. When this happens, I often go into the mode, “I’m only talking to Jesus today”.
Matthew 6:34 – So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Do you struggle with anxiety? If not, you are lucky. But if you do all is not lost. The Bible talks about anxiety and worry. God doesn’t want us to be anxious, He wants us to come to Him for help. Remember, you are never alone! In case you missed it a few weeks ago, we did a blog post, Why Is It So Easy to Believe the Worst in Others. You can read that here.
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Where Should I Start?
When anxiety starts up, whether due to an outside source or just our inner thoughts begin with prayer. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – Pray without ceasing.
So, before we go to our friend with our problems or anxieties take them to God. Start with a prayer. Ask God for discernment and guidance.
I know with anxiety we don’t always know the specific thing that is causing us to feel anxious. Sometimes we do but not always. Many times, we feel anxious when we are under spiritual attack. That is how we know we are on the right path. Satan is jealous of God and comes after the ones that have a close relationship with Him.
Ephesians 6:11 – Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
Letting Go Of Control
I can think of hundreds of reasons to justify my anxiety and worry. And I am sure you can too. We can either allow it to control us or we can give it to God.
1 Peter 5:7 – Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.
I spent years letting what others think of me control my own thoughts and opinions of myself. I let it feed into my anxiety. But in reality, who do I want to please, them or God? I choose God, he knows my heart. Do those anxieties still creep in, of course, I am better equipped on how to handle them.
Tools
We all have those days when we don’t want to see or talk to anyone. Well, I hope it’s just not me! We should never stop talking to Jesus. Below are a few things you can incorporate into your daily life to help when you are feeling anxious.
Daily prayer journal –
I started this a while back. It has helped a lot. We need to not only go to God when we are in need but to also give thanks. Do you like it when a friend only comes to you when they want something? I didn’t think so. Lol! I plan on going into more detail on daily prayer journals soon!
Devotional –
I love reading daily devotionals. I just finished up one and am getting ready to start another one, You’re Going to Make it by Lysa Terkeurst. You can find that here. Devotionals help keep you accountable and close to God’s word. They also are great at putting God’s word into a better explanation for your daily life.
Christian music –
I hardly listen to any other music anymore. There is such good Christian music out there that can lift you right out of your slump! It has come a long way since I was young. Two of my favorite artists to listen to are Anne Wilson and Lauren Daigle.
Podcasts –
Find a Christian Podcast to listen to while driving or out walking. I have been listening to Therapy & Theology hosted by Lysa Terkeurst. It addresses everyday problems and gives help that is backed up with God’s word.
Read your Bible –
My husband and I started on a journey of reading the entire Bible together. It was supposed to be a 1-year study. It has turned into a little longer than that! We of course had missed days in there. But I have to say that we have no regrets, only joy that we have read it all. I grew up Catholic and had never read the Bible. If you have never read it, highly recommend it. I also recommend getting a translation that is easy to understand so you don’t get discouraged and can understand it better. Either NIV or NLT.
So, do you ever feel like only talking to Jesus? Or is that just me? Some days it is just hard to “people”. Negativity and unkindness can be draining. But God wants us to be the light in other people’s life. We might be the smile that changes someone’s day or a kind word that turns their bad day around. I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
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