When the things we fear continue into a more general, sustained, long-term uneasy state of mind it becomes anxiety. Anxiety is distracting care. While there are legitimate daily concerns about things like health, safety, and relationships, anxiety is a state of mind where our thoughts are continually pulled to dwell on circumstances.
Behind anxiety is the basic assumption that God isn't involved in our situation for our good. Looking at things from that perspective, our nature is to think and respond to things apart from God in the picture.
The Lord tells us not to be anxious. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:6-9 NIV).
Take all the time you need to bring your life to God in prayer by listing out what is making you anxious. When you do He promises to replace your fears and anxious woes with a perfect peace to guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Many of us are currently enduring a crisis. Yes, crisis changes the course of our lives. But what we often forget is that the changes can open doors to a life better than what would have been if the crisis had not happened.
The term worry is derived from the old German word wurgen, which means "to choke." Somehow, by extension, the word came to denote "mental strangulation," and, finally, to describe the condition of being harassed with anxiety.
Chuck Swindoll has four simple words of advice for dealing with fear and they all have to do with choosing to trust the Lord instead of running scared.
Although it sounds like a paradox, the key is learning to balance the reality of today with the hope of tomorrow, making decisions today knowing they will affect your tomorrows and help prepare you for what’s to come.
We all need wisdom and courage to stand up to false accusations. If you’re on the receiving end of hurtful words stay calm, speak the truth, and trust your defence to the Lord.
Pray about everything. When you pray you’re giving your worries to God. He understands what you’re worrying about and He knows exactly what He’s doing. If you leave it to Him, He’ll work it out.
When you feel lonely remember the Lord is with you. He hasn’t left you alone. In these times cling to His promises to never abandon you, never fail your, and never forsake you.
When faced with impossible situations refuse to worry. Instead, hand them over to God. Ask Him to take charge. After all, He’s the specialist.
Discontent comes because we are focused on a particular prize we don’t yet possess. Being thwarted somehow creates discontent and anxiety. That means discontent is an inner indication that my mind is set on the wrong things.
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