7 Bible verses to overcome worry and anxiety
Amidst the economic downturn caused by Covid-19, many have been suffering from negative thoughts and emotions. In Malaysia, over 800,000 were unemployed as of May 2020, and the numbers continue to rise – causing many to worry about how to pay off their bills and mortgages. Just recently, a 35-year-old pilot retrenched by his airline committed suicide by jumping down from his condominium block, in Serdang.
Certainly, there is a lot to be anxious about, and Christians are not exempted from these fears and anxieties. The pain is real, and the terrible toll of fear, anger, confusion, and uncertainty that happens when a person’s world collapses is much more than a statistical reality.
>>READ: Overcoming Worry; Turning Fear into Faith
>>READ: Be confident and assured that God watches over us
How then, do we even begin to overcome our worries? The Bible teaches us to continually focus on God and contemplate His Word and His unfailing love day and night (Joshua 1:8, Psalm 77:12) amidst the storm. Therefore, here are 7 key Bible passages to memorise and meditate on, to help us overcome worry, anxiety and stress.
- “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
- “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
- “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
- “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
- “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
- “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
- “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34)
Write these Bible verses down, print them out, stick them in a visible place, or read them aloud every morning to serve as a daily reminder. Read the verse in the light of the chapter of the Bible where the verse is found. You will have a better understanding of what the verse means in its proper context.
Yes, we can overcome negative emotions by focusing on God and His Word. When we take the focus off ourselves, we allow God’s goodness and faithfulness to take priority over our problems. “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”(Joshua 1:8)
You may find help to build a habit of Bible reading and prayer with this booklet, In His Presence.
Father, help me find Your peace amidst the storm. Grant me the desire and discipline to read Your Word daily, and to meditate on your unfailing love despite the challenges I may face. Amen.
About the Author
Wan Phing Lim is a contributor to Our Daily Bread Ministries Malaysia. Born and raised in Penang, she studied Politics and International Relations at The University of Manchester before turning to a career in writing. Now based in Kuala Lumpur, she writes across a wide variety of genres in print and digital – including lifestyle, travel, education and technology. In her free time, she loves a good cup of coffee, books, films and writing fiction.
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