When anxiety hits, it can seem like there is no end to the torment of spinning thoughts. The mind is a powerful tool; it can hook itself on anxious thoughts for the longest time. However, Jesus understands us in our times of trouble! He experienced anxiety just like any other human did. We are not alone, and we are left with an even more powerful tool inspired by the Holy Spirit to encourage us in our times of suffering. When the awful thoughts hit, crack open to your Bible to these verses and try to fill your heart with the words that God wants to speak to you.
1. "You are my refuge and shield; in your word I hope." Psalm 119:114
2. "Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
3. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; in all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
4. "The Lord will fight for you; you have only to keep still." Exodus 14:14
5. "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? Why are you anxious abut clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?' or 'What are we to wear?' All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil." Matthew 6:25-34
6. "I command you: be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
7. "Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
8. "When cares increase within me, your comfort gives me joy." Psalm 94:19
9. “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” Matthew 11:28-30
10. "Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer." Romans 12:12
In the midst of suffering, it is possible to have hope because God says He will never leave or forsake us. Take heart! Try to read these verses the next time anxiety tries to rear its ugly head, and remember to be patient with yourself along the way. All will be well.
