Normally anxiety refers to anticipation of a future concern. While a mild level of anxiety is a normal reaction to stress, there are some extreme mental disorders that need psychiatric assistance which could include medication.

For those of us whose hearts and minds are set on glorifying Christ in whatever we do, how does dealing with anxiety look like? Let’s look at the practical biblical principles to overcome anxiety or anything that makes you excessively worried.

I would call ‘Rejoicing’ and ‘Thankfulness’ as co-joined words as they often appear together in Paul’s exhortation to the churches at multiple places in the Bible. Moreover, ‘Thankfulness’ relates to joyful gratitude- Joy is the essence of Christian living. Rejoicing and thankfulness characterize the lifestyle of new testament believers. They are the hallmark of those living under Grace. Paul begins exhorting the church in Philippi asking to rejoice in the Lord always.

Philippians 4: 4

“Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, take pleasure in Him]; again I will say, rejoice!”

Bible does not say that the true believers will never battle with fear or anxiety. Instead the Bible tells what to do when they strike.

Philippians 4:6,7

“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.”

We glorify God by thankfully recognizing Him as the giver of all good things. Redeemed people live in the state of constant thankfulness and joy in Christ. When fear or anxiety strikes, there is always a reason to thank God for His faithfulness and providence so far, believing that His faithfulness lasts forever. God in His providence has richly provided for all of our present and future needs in Christ Jesus. When we dwell on the promises of God, Bible says God will fill us with His peace that is beyond all understanding.

We do not stop here in our battle against anxiety. Bible makes it clear that our thought process also plays an important role. But how? The following verse shows what we can do to change our thought process to overcome anxiety and start walking in victory.

Philippians 4: 8

“Finally, brothers and sisters, 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.”

We have to train our minds to dwell on excellent things- things that focus on solution. The change might not happen instantly but as we practice things that are excellent in our daily lives, we will see significant changes in how we act as a result of a renewed thought process.

Philippians 4:9

“The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.”

Remember, we get transformed from glory to glory by renewing of our minds as we meditate on God’s Word.

As our faith grows stronger the swerving of anxiety will straighten out.