Dealing With Anxiety - Part 7 of 7

Overcoming Anxiety by Cultivating Faith

As we conclude this series on dealing with anxiety, let's focus on the underlying element that often fuels anxiety: fear. While it's natural to want to eliminate anxiety, fear often lies at its root. Recognizing and addressing these fears through faith can transform how we experience anxiety and lead to genuine peace.

Key Insights from this Week’s Video:

• Fear vs. Faith: Anxiety often stems from fear, which can reveal cracks in our faith. While we might think courage or peace is the opposite of fear, it's actually faith. Trusting in God replaces fear with confidence in His sovereign care.

• Biblical Encouragement: Scripture provides guidance on replacing fear with faith. Verses like Mark 5:36, Psalm 56:3-4, Hebrews 13:6, and Proverbs 3:5-6 encourage us to trust in the Lord and lean not on our own understanding. By doing so, we acknowledge God's presence and power in our lives.

• Practical Exercise: To combat anxiety, write down your fears on one side of a paper and corresponding words of faith on the other. This exercise helps externalize fears and reframe them with faith, allowing you to focus on God's promises rather than self-reliance.

• Mark 5:36

  But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”

• Psalm 56:3-4

  When I am afraid,
      I put my trust in you.
  In God, whose word I praise,
      in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.
      What can flesh do to me?

• Hebrews 13:6

  So we can confidently say,
  
  “The Lord is my helper;
      I will not fear;
  what can man do to me?”

• Proverbs 3:5-6

  Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
      and do not lean on your own understanding.
  In all your ways acknowledge him,
      and he will make straight your paths.

Thought for the Week - Dealing with Anxiety Part 7 of 7
Pastor Bryan Hurlbutt's devotional series on anxiety.

Reflective Questions:

1. What fears are currently contributing to your anxiety, and how can you address them with faith?

2. How can you incorporate the practice of writing down fears and corresponding words of faith into your routine?

3. In what ways can trusting in God's sovereignty help you navigate challenges and reduce anxiety?

Additional Resources

• Are you Happy? God Made you to Be Happy.

• Would you like prayer support from our team?