Living in An Anxiety Era
Anxiety has become one of the most common struggles of our time. Work deadlines, financial pressures, family concerns, and the constant flood of bad news all pile up to weigh on our hearts. Even Christians, who believe in a sovereign and loving God, are not immune. In fact, some carry additional guilt — “If I had more faith, I wouldn’t feel anxious.”
But the gospel speaks directly to our anxious hearts. Jesus Himself said: “Do not be anxious about your life…” (Matthew 6:25). Paul wrote: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6). These verses aren’t meant to shame us. They are invitations into peace that surpasses understanding.
Why Anxiety Runs Deep
Anxiety isn’t just “worrying too much.” It’s a whole-body experience. It can show up as racing thoughts, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, insomnia, or irritability. Anxiety is both emotional and physical, which is why simple advice like “just calm down” rarely works.
Spiritually, anxiety often grows when we forget who holds the future. We carry burdens God never asked us to carry. We rehearse worst-case scenarios instead of God’s promises. Over time, this drains joy and steals the ability to live fully in the present.
The Gospel Response to Anxiety
The gospel is not a quick fix. It doesn’t promise that life will be free of stress or hardship. What it does promise is that Jesus is near, and His presence changes everything.
- God is Sovereign. Anxiety often comes from the need to control outcomes. The gospel reminds us that God is in control, not us.
- God is Good. Worry tells us that things won’t turn out well. The gospel reminds us that all things work together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
- God is With Us. Anxiety isolates. The gospel proclaims Emmanuel — “God with us.”
Peace doesn’t come from perfect circumstances. It comes from trusting a perfect Savior.
Practical Steps Toward Peace
- Breathe and Pray
Anxiety speeds everything up — our thoughts, our bodies, our fears. Prayer slows us down. A simple breath prayer, like inhaling with “Lord Jesus Christ” and exhaling with “have mercy on me”, can bring immediate calm. - Ground Yourself in Scripture
When anxiety tells you lies, Scripture tells you truth. Memorize verses like Isaiah 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Keep them handy on note cards, your phone background, or sticky notes on your desk. - Journal Your Fears
Writing down anxious thoughts brings clarity. Often, worries feel bigger in our minds than they are on paper. Once written, you can pray over each one, handing them to God one by one. - Seek Wise Counsel
God designed us for community. Counselors, pastors, and trusted friends can provide perspective you can’t see on your own. Sometimes anxiety is tied to trauma or biology — professional help is a gift, not a weakness. - Practice Gratitude
Gratitude shifts your focus from what might go wrong to what God has already done. Keep a daily gratitude list, no matter how small. Anxiety says, “What if?” Gratitude says, “Even if, God is faithful.” - Care for Your Body
Our bodies and spirits are connected. Exercise, sleep, and nutrition directly affect anxiety. Even a short daily walk outdoors can help reset your nervous system and renew your spirit.
In addition to the steps listed here, BrewPastors are ready and available to meet up at your preferred coffee shop or craft brewery, to talk through any anxiety, fear, or worry you’re facing and to pray with you. No judgment; just a listening ear.
Stories of Peace in the Midst of Anxiety
- Martha in Luke 10: Distracted by many tasks, she was “anxious and troubled about many things.” Jesus gently redirected her to the “one thing necessary.” Anxiety often scatters us, but Jesus calls us back to Himself.
- Paul in Prison (Philippians 4): Despite being chained, he wrote about rejoicing and peace. His circumstances didn’t change, but his perspective did — rooted in Christ’s presence.
These stories remind us that peace is not the absence of hardship but the presence of Jesus.
When Anxiety Doesn’t Go Away Quickly
For some, anxiety is not a passing season but a long-term battle. Faith doesn’t always erase it overnight. That doesn’t mean your faith is weak. It means you’re human.
The gospel gives us permission to keep bringing our burdens to God daily. Like manna in the wilderness, His peace often comes one day at a time. “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11) applies to peace as much as to provision.
Practical Rhythms for Daily Life
- Morning Reset: Begin each day with a short prayer, asking God to carry your worries before they carry you.
- Midday Pause: Take a 5-minute break to breathe, stretch, and read a verse.
- Evening Release: Write down the top three things weighing on your heart and surrender them to God before bed.
These rhythms don’t eliminate anxiety entirely, but they help build a lifestyle anchored in peace.
Resources for the Anxious Heart
- Books: Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado, Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen.
- Apps: Lectio 365, Abide, or Calm Christian meditation playlists.
- Community: Join a small group where struggles can be shared openly without judgment.
Final Word: The Promise of Peace
Anxiety is a thief, but the gospel restores what it steals. Jesus doesn’t shame us for our worry; He meets us in it. He promises peace that “surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
If anxiety has been your companion, know this: you are not alone. The God who spoke “Peace, be still” to stormy seas can also speak peace into your restless heart.
Take the next small step. Breathe. Pray. Open your Bible. Share your burden. Trust that God will meet you there with grace.
Finally, BrewPastors are always available to sit down with you or meet on a video call to talk through anxiety and worry with you. We’d love to meet you where you are.