CCES Devotionals: Anxiety and Worry

Philippians 4: 6-9
Do not be anxious about anything . . .
the peace of God . . . will guard your hearts and minds . . .

Anxiety is a general, long-term feeling of uneasiness that keeps the body at a constant low level of alert.

Worry is a conscious choice to try to control life events rather than believe that God is in control. Worry is a thief that robs us of joy, energy, peace of mind, and strength for today. The antidote for worry is absolute faith in God by turning everything over to Him in prayer. But in the midst of our prayer, God wants us to have an attitude of thanksgiving not complaining. Have you ever noticed that this verse tells us how to prevent heart attacks and mental breakdowns? What are the major illnesses in our society today? Society is worrying itself to death! God promises to guard our heart and mind if we give everything to Him. Our bodies were not meant to carry these worries.

Spend time thinking about the things listed in verse 8. We have to change our thinking in order to quit worrying. We must get into God's Word and remember God's faithfulness in the past and His promises for the future. In Luke 8:14 Jesus said the seed (Word of God) did not grow because. . . they are choked with worries. . . of this life . . . Don't allow worry to rob you of God's blessing in your life today.

Is worry consuming you? Pray for the peace of God to give you victory in your everyday living.

I am free from WORRY "for I am to cast my cares upon Him." 1 Peter 5:7

Go to the Bible and read: Psalm 9:9-10; 34; 37; Matthew 6:25-34; Psalm 3:1-6.

By Elaine Olson

Related articles and devotionals:
What Do You Know About Anxiety?
Depression
Marriage - Whose Reflection