It’s not the will of God for Christians to live their life in anxiety (anxiety related to mental health is not included in this post). Why should we live that way when we have God on our side? He always causes us to triumph (2 Corinthians 2:14, KJV). But in a world in which it seems as if everything that can be shaken is being shaken, living life on edge can seem to be the norm. Consider these words of Paul the apostle:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7, NASB
Notice that Paul juxtaposes “be anxious for nothing” with “in everything by prayer and supplication.” The point is that if you neglect prayer in your life, you will experience more anxiety in your life. On the other hand, the more prayerful you are, the less anxiety you will have in our life. Whenever we feel anxious, we can stem the tide of anxiety by praying.
Perhaps some believers who read Paul’s words to “be anxious for nothing,” don’t think that is a reasonable request. How can we possibly live in a world like ours without anxiety, they ask? But God never calls on us to live on a level that He has not equipped us to live on. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, God has given us the wherewithal to live in accordance with His Word.
Of course, not only must we pray, but we must pray in faith. Even if we pray a lot but we pray void of faith, we are simply going through a religious exercise. During His public ministry, Jesus talked about those who use meaningless repetition supposing that they will be heard for their many words (Matthew 6:7).
The evidence that you are praying in faith is that after you have prayed, you believe God has heard you. In turn, you will exhibit less anxiety in your life.
The Futility of Anxiety
We all know that living your life in anxiety will accomplish nothing good for you. It may cause you some sleepless nights. You may act out of haste or desperation because of anxiety. But nothing good will come of a life of worrying and anxiety.
“Who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?” Jesus asked (Matthew 6:27, NASB). By these words, He underscores the futility of anxiety. Nevertheless, worry and anxiety are what tends to be our normal response when we feel overwhelmed in life. It’s just the way we are wired as humans.
But in Christ, we are a new creation. Old things are passed away. All things have become new. (2 Corinthians, 5:17). That means we can live differently.
Note that Paul’s guidance above specifically addresses how to “let your requests be made known to God.” No matter what your needs are in this life, never allow anxiety in the driver’s seat. Never push the panic button. “But in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Copyright © 2023 by Frank King. All rights reserved.