If you struggle with anxiety you know how frustrating it is when we hear Christian leaders say things like, "Stop being anxious and trust the Lord." While well-meaning, this advice often misses the mark and can feel more like a dismissal than a comfort. Philippians teaches us something deeper. Philippians 4:6 says, "Do not be anxious about anything," but notice, there's no period there. Instead, there's a continuation: "but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." This passage acknowledges our anxiety and offers a practical path forward—bring your worries to God, and He will provide you with His peace.
|
It's essential to understand that anxiety is not our enemy. It’s our body's way of signaling that something needs attention. When we try to conquer it by sheer force, ignoring it, or pushing it down, we often find that it gains even more power over us.
Instead, consider a different approach. What if, instead of resisting our anxiety, we invited God and trusted friends into our struggle? By doing so, we can start to gain clarity and move the anxiety through us, making room for greater peace.
WHEN DOES YOUR ANXIETY BECOME SPIRITUAL WARFARE?
|
|
|
Your anxiety response— the rising cortisol levels and the activation of our sympathetic nervous system, is designed to protect you. This sensation becomes spiritual warfare when the enemy exploits this feeling by whispering lies like, “You’re broken, you’re crazy, and you must fix this alone.” He isolates us, suggesting secrecy, and numbing, which only leads to greater isolation and fragmentation. When we believe these lies, the enemy gains power when we keep our struggles hidden and attempt to manage them by ourselves.
|
|
|
You have a good body designed in the image of God. Partnering with God and addressing anxiety with the support of a loving community is vital to living in freedom. Through this support, we can find peace and dispel the enemy's lies. Remember, my dear friend, that we are never alone in our struggles, and there is profound strength and solace in sharing our burdens.
In it with you,
Karrie Garcia
|
|
|
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Philippians 4:6
|
|
