Overcoming Anxiety: Trusting God When Your Mind Feels Heavy.

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

We have all felt our hands sweat before speaking up. Or our hearts race just at the thought of being seen. That moment when you want to walk into a room confidently, but something invisible pushes you to the back corner. That feeling, that's anxiety. The truth is that Christians may experience this at some point, or even frequently. Whatever the case is, God Sees You, and He wants you to come to him.

God already had a solution before anxiety had a name. Psalm 61:2 says, "When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I." The Psalmist David was not afraid to admit when he was overwhelmed. So why should you? God wants you to be direct with him. Anxiety grows when we keep it inside. But peace begins when we surrender it to God.

You see, peace isn't found in trying to control everything, but in giving everything to God. Paul in Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) tells us, "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." Even Jesus was anxious in the Garden of Gethsemane before his crucifixion. So much that his sweat was like blood falling on the ground. But what did he do? He prayed and leaned in. And he was comforted. We are no different. 

Anxiety comes in different shades. Some worse than the other, but God is saying give it to me (Matthew 11:28-30). So, what should you do when you are hit with that feeling of fear and anxiety? First of all, Surrender. Daily anxiety won't vanish in a snap. Take moments before you go to class or work to give your fears to God. There is power in confession and release. Another step is to Breathe and pray. When your palms are getting sweaty, you can breathe in and whisper a scripture. You could read Psalm 28, which expresses our cry for help. Breathe in patterns and remind yourself that Jesus has overcome anxiety.

In addition to that, you need to get rid of the Spotlight Effect. This is when we tend to feel noticed or judged by people more than we already are. People are more focused on themselves. And if truly you feel eyes staring, stay present, breathe, and remember that you are God's beloved. Walk in boldness, maybe with a little step if you feel like it. Remember that the boldness that you crave doesn't come from self-will; it comes from the One who strengthens you. 

You can also talk to someone safe. A friend or roommate, someone you trust. You don't have to bottle it. Tell someone how you feel, you never know how much that can help. And finally, Step Out. Anxiety grows into shyness, timidity, and whatnot. Start a conversation. Ask a question. Post something encouraging. The first few times might feel rough, but it won't break you. 

Anxiety can feel like a storm that won't let up, loud, heavy, and all-consuming. You are not alone, and you are not powerless. Jesus has been there, and he understands that feeling. God doesn't seek our perfection calls for a surrender. So even if your voice trembles or your steps feel unsure, walk boldly knowing that your strength is in him. 

If this spoke to you, don't keep it to yourself. Share this message with someone who might need this today. Join our WhatsApp Community for daily encouragement and inspiration from the Word of God. 



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