“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad” (Proverbs 12:25).

“Anxiety disorders affect 40 million adults (19.1% of the population) in the U.S. annually. Only 36.9% of those people struggling are seeking treatment. Anxiety can be caused by genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events” (ADAA, 2023). Environmental offenders such as dyes and pesticides in our foods and hygiene products, the saturation of media, and prescription drugs, including vaccines, are tested contributors, additionally lending to this widespread trend. No matter the severity, coping with anxiety weighs heavily on the heart and can drain us of our peace. Even if pinpointed causes are not identified for every case, we can be assured that many forms of anxiety are rooted in some level of spiritual warfare.

Paul gave us insight into how he dealt with anxiety while imprisoned: “Do not be anxious about anything but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Being in a close relationship with God is essential to coping with anxiety! We can support and improve our mental health by digging into God’s word, exercising our Jesus-granted authority over our health, and taking everything to God in prayer. The good news? We serve a mighty and wonderful God! He is in control at all times, even when we aren’t. “My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:10). Never give up or stop trusting Him to be all you need.

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: If you suffer from anxiety, God knows your struggle—You will never, ever be alone because He is always with you. If you know someone battling anxiety, send them this devotion and a few words of encouragement today.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7).

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Prayer: Father God, thank You for surrounding us; You are a mighty and powerful God! We lay the weight of anxiety, fear, and depression before You today. These things are too heavy a burden for us to bear alone. Fill our hearts with peace and calm our spirits. We trust in You, Lord, and know that we can do all things through You who give us strength. In Your name, we pray, Amen!

Final Thought: “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today” (Matthew 6:34).