Few of us are strangers to anxiety. Myself included. But what should we do when those negative emotions start to control our life?
I’ve asked myself that same question. And one of the most important tools God has shown me in the battle against anxiety is Scripture.
God has calmed my fears and restored my peace through His Word countless times. And He can do the same for you.
So, I’ve collected 12 Bible verses for anxiety and fear, along with four tips to help you apply those Scriptures to whatever might be threatening your joy.
My prayer as you study these tips and verses is that you will constantly be reminded…”the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4 NIV)
Four Practices to Overcome Negative Emotions with Scripture
#1. Pray Scripture
Sometimes we don’t know what to pray. Or we’re too worked up to even form the right words. In those moments turning a verse or passage into a prayer can be exactly what we need.
Even more important-praying Scripture is extremely powerful! Check out the example prayer at the end of this post to see how to get started.
Discover 10 Life-Changing Habits For a Less Anxious Life in “How to Deal with Anxiety as a Christian.”
#2. Memorize Scripture
Few things are more powerful that having an arsenal of Bible verses at your disposal when things start to get crazy! But Googling Bible verses about anxiety and fear when you’re in the middle of a panic attack isn’t exactly practical. That’s why Scripture memorization is so important.
I know that. But it’s still not easy for me. So, I start small.
I post one short passage on my bathroom cabinet and say it three times each morning while I’m getting ready. I work on those same verses for at least a month (or until I have them memorized-sometimes it takes longer). Then I move on to another.
I choose passages that relate to current problems or stressors. And I revisit the memorized verses often so I won’t forget them. Then I’m ready with an applicable verse when stress or anxiety tries to take the upper hand!
#3. Speak Scripture
There’s something especially powerful about speaking the Word out loud. It’s different than saying it in your head or reading it silently. Things change when the Word of God is spoken-including your emotions.
It may seem strange if you’ve never done it before. But the difference it makes is worth any awkwardness you might feel. Give it a try. You’ll be glad you did.
#4. Surround Yourself with Scripture
A Bible verse is the first thing I look at in the morning. And the last thing I read when I go to bed. I listen to the Bible on audio a few times a week while in my car. I try to read one chapter each night before bed.
Everyone has different learning styles and preferences. But figure out how to saturate your life in Scripture. Especially when negative emotions are threatening your peace.
Putting it all Together
Now, take these four practices and apply them to the following verses. Again, start small and be patient with yourself. Choose one tip and focus on it until it becomes a habit. Then add another.
Overcoming negative emotions won’t happen overnight. But victory is possible! Celebrate progress. Push through setback. Most of all, refuse to give up–your emotions don’t have to control your life anymore!
Read more about battling anxiety in “Choose Faith Over Feelings.”
12 Bible Verses for Anxiety and Fear
Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.
Psalms 55:22 NLT
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 NLT
I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
Psalms 34:4 NLT
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28 NIV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 NIV
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 NIV
For the Lord your God is living among you. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.
Zephaniah 3:17 NLT
Say to those who have an anxious heart, Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.
Isaiah 35:4 ESV
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?
Luke 12:25-26 ESV
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
A prayer for anxiety (from Psalms 23)
You are my shepherd, I lack nothing.
(Help me to trust you.)
You make me lie down in green pastures and lead me beside quiet water.
(Help me to rest in you.)
You refresh my soul.
(Remind me you are always more than enough.)
You guide me along the right path for your name’s sake.
(Give me clarity and wisdom.)
When I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.
(Help me overcome fear and live in peace.)
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies and anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.
(Thank you for your blessings and mercy.)
I know your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
(Help me always remember this earth is not my home.)
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