Worry and anxiety are two of the easiest pitfalls of faith that we can fall into. Why? Everybody has them once in a while. But Christians should not be affected by them.
For sure, any honest Christian can say that they worry about something sometimes, and that at times, anxiety over certain things attack them. It's a good thing to know that in Christ, we can stop worrying and let go of our anxieties. 1 Peter 5:7 says, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
So what do you do when worries and anxieties come and attack you? Here are some things that you can do.
1) Ask yourself "why am I worried?"
Why are you even bothered? Our worries are simply products of a lack of trust in the Lord's goodness and faithfulness. When we are secure in the Lord's love for us, and we love Him more than anything, we are assured that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28-29)
When worry strikes, ask yourself why. Realise that God is above everything, and we can put our faith in Him.
2) Trust in the Lord
Every Christian knows Psalm 23:1, where David sings "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." God takes good care of His children, and brings them nothing but good all their lives. What's there to worry about when you have a God who is all-powerful, all-knowing, ever-present and has nothing but what is good for you?
Psalm 37:3-4 says, "Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."
3) Seek His kingdom and righteousness
Worried about what you will need for everyday life? Jesus said the Father knows them very well (see Matt. 6:32). Instead, choose to seek God and His righteousness. God will take care of your needs.
4) Fix your eyes on Jesus
Hebrews 12:1-3 tells us that we should fix our eyes on Jesus. The Lord was able to endure the cross and all the pain that it included because He saw the "joy set before Him." When we consider how He overcame all trials, we will be strengthened to overcome, too.
5) Pray, pray, pray!
Paul encourages all Christians to pray whenever any concern comes up.
Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
