What Does The Bible Say About Fear And Anxiety?

Fear and anxiety are common human emotions that can greatly impact our lives. In an increasingly chaotic world, many believers wonder what guidance the Bible offers on managing feelings of fear and anxiety.

This comprehensive article explores numerous bible verses and passages that provide wisdom, reassurance, and practical advice to followers of Christ on overcoming worry and living courageously.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: The Bible repeatedly encourages believers not to give in to fear and anxiety. Instead, we are told to turn to God in prayer, trust in His sovereignty and goodness, focus our thoughts on biblical truths that inspire peace and courage, and take practical steps to reduce anxiety.

In this approximately 3000 word article, we will examine bible verses that instruct Christians to avoid fear, have courage and wise discernment, acknowledge God’s control over all circumstances, redirect anxious thoughts, be thankful and think on uplifting things, pray and cast cares on the Lord, trust God’s faithfulness, feel empowered by the Holy Spirit, and take practical steps to reduce worry and anxiety.

Fear Not – Have Courage and Discernment

Key Verses Exhorting Courage Over Fear

The Bible encourages believers numerous times to “fear not” and be courageous in the face of adversity. Here are some key verses:

• “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
• “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently tells his followers to “fear not” and reassures them of God’s love and provision:

• “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32)
• “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)

These and many other verses remind believers that God is sovereign, loving, and will never abandon them, giving courage to move past paralyzing fear.

Balance Courage with Discernment

However, the Bible also exhorts believers to exercise discernment and not simply rush headlong into danger.

• “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” (Ephesians 5:15-16)
• “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1)

Discernment involves assessing potential risks wisely while resisting fear that leads to poor decision making. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to move forward despite risks and uncertainties.

Christians need God’s wisdom to balance boldness and discernment appropriately. As Proverbs 3:21-26 states, “My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight…Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble.”

Recognize God’s Sovereignty Over All Things

God is Working Everything for Good

As children of God, we can have faith and trust that He has a purpose and plan for everything that happens in our lives (Romans 8:28). Even in times of difficulty, anxiety and fear, we must remember that God is still on the throne.

He promises to work all things out for the good of those who love Him.

Though we may not understand why certain trials come our way, God sees the full picture. We can surrender our fears to Him, trusting that He will give us the strength to endure hardships and the wisdom to learn vital lessons through them.

As it says in Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The Lord is Our Shield and Fortress

God promises to be an ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). He is our refuge and strength, shielding us from danger and giving us courage. As Psalm 18:2 declares poetically, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

We can take great comfort knowing that the all-powerful Creator is watching over us protectively.

Furthermore, God reminds us repeatedly in Scripture not to be anxious but instead to present our requests to Him through prayer and petition (Philippians 4:6-7). When we do so with thankful hearts, His incomprehensible peace guards our minds and hearts, helping us to withstand worries and fears.

As 1 John 4:18 affirms, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.” The Lord’s perfect love cast out all fear when we abide in Him.

We all struggle with anxious thoughts and worries at times. But we have a compassionate Savior who wants us to release those burdens to Him in childlike faith, trusting His goodness and sovereignty over every aspect of our lives. He will lead us through life’s storms into deeper peace, hope and joy.

Redirect Anxious Thoughts

Think On What is Noble, Right, Pure

When feelings of anxiety and fear begin to creep in, it’s important to redirect our thoughts to things that are positive and uplifting (Philippians 4:8). Specifically, the Bible encourages us to think about things that are noble, right, and pure.

This means shifting our focus to concepts and ideas that promote righteousness, excellence and virtue.

For example, we can spend time thinking about ways we can show love to others, reflect on the good happening in our lives, or ponder the blessings we’ve been given. Choosing gratitude and dwelling on benevolence directs our cognition away from the corrosive effects of anxiety.

Be Thankful and Praise God

Cultivating an attitude of thankfulness is a powerful antidote to anxiety. Though our circumstances may seem bleak, there is always something to be grateful for – even if it is something as simple as being alive or having clothing and shelter (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

As we focus on blessings rather than burdens, our mindset shifts in a positive direction.

Thankfulness naturally lends itself to praise. The act of praising God realigns our thoughts onto His character and provisions. As we exalt His name and recount His faithfulness, anxiety loses its grip. The “sacrifice of praise” pushes back the darkness of fear and worry (Hebrews 13:15).

Meditate on God’s Word

There is supernatural power in the living Word of God. Regular meditation on Scripture calms the storm of anxiety like nothing else (Psalm 119:25). As we read, speak, mutter, memorize, reflect upon and dwell on God’s Word, His truth progressively permeates our mind and renews our thinking.

Here are two great examples of anxiety-relieving passages of Scripture to incorporate:

• “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.” – Philippians 4:6-7
• “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

Meditating on such passages recalibrates our mind, emotions and outlook. By immersing ourself in God’s Word, anxiety is progressively diminished and replaced with His supernatural peace as we learn to trust in Him.

Cast Your Cares Upon the Lord

Pray About Everything

The Bible encourages us to bring all of our cares and concerns to God in prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “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.” Rather than trying to handle anxiety on our own, God wants us to rely on Him and bring our fears and worries to Him. Through prayer, we can experience God’s peace and comfort.

1 Peter 5:7 also reminds us to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” God cares deeply for us and invites us to cast our cares upon Him. He can handle our worries much better than we can.

As we learn to pray about everything and fully rely on God, He will help guard our hearts and minds from debilitating fear and anxiety. Prayer allows us to surrender our anxieties to the One who is in control.

Humble Yourself Before God

The Bible teaches that humility is the antidote to fear and anxiety. When we humble ourselves before God, we recognize our dependence on Him and acknowledge that He is in control. James 4:10 instructs us, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”

As we humble ourselves and submit to God’s will, He promises to lift us up and help shoulder our burdens.

Proverbs 29:23 also states, “Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.” Being prideful often increases our anxiety levels because we try to control everything. But when we humbly acknowledge our limitations and trust in God’s sovereign plan, we can find freedom from fear and anxiety.

We are not in control, but God is. Humbly submitting to Him allows His peace to guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).

Trust in God’s Faithfulness

One of the best ways to combat anxiety is to remember and trust in God’s faithfulness. Even when we are faithless, He remains faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). We can look back and see how God has proven Himself faithful time and time again.

Recall specific examples of when God provided for your needs and brought you comfort in past seasons of anxiety. Remind yourself of His sovereignty, lovingkindness and unmatched faithfulness.

Isaiah 26:3 promises, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” As we keep our focus on God and intentionally trust in His faithful character, He will guard our hearts and minds with His perfect peace.

Unlike temporary situational peace, this is an unshakeable, eternal peace that comes from trusting in God’s steadfast love and faithfulness.

Rely on the Holy Spirit

Live by the Spirit

As Christians, we are called to live by the guidance of the Holy Spirit rather than our own natural inclinations (Galatians 5:16). When faced with fear or anxiety, we can pause and invite the Holy Spirit to fill us and show us the path forward.

The Spirit brings love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These godly virtues displace fear in our hearts. As we learn to hear and obey the Spirit’s leading each day in small choices, trusting Him becomes a lifelong posture that casts out fear.

The website Bible Study Tools offers excellent resources for growing in relationship with the Holy Spirit including Bible verses, commentary, and over 150 articles exploring how Christians can live in partnership with God’s Spirit.

Let God’s Peace Rule You

The Bible instructs us, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). Though fear and anxiety may batter our hearts, we can choose to let God’s supernatural peace guard our thoughts and emotions.

Encountering God in Scripture, worship, meditation and prayer releases divine peace that calms inner turmoil. As we continually surrender anxious thoughts to Jesus and fix our minds on good things (Philippians 4:6-9), His peace begins to rule and reign over areas once dominated by fear.

Trusted mentors and Christian counselors can come alongside us in the journey towards lasting peace. Helpful books such as “Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts” by Jennie Allen provide biblical strategies for overcoming anxiety through God’s power.

Practical Steps to Overcome Fear and Anxiety

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Living a healthy lifestyle is a great way to combat fear and anxiety. Here are some practical tips:

• Exercise regularly – aim for 30 minutes per day. Physical activity releases endorphins which improve mood.
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet. Avoid sugary and processed foods which can negatively impact mental health.
• Get enough sleep. Adults need 7-9 hours per night. Lack of sleep increases stress hormones.
• Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake. These can increase feelings of anxiety.
• Try relaxing activities like yoga, meditation and deep breathing. They calm the mind and body.

Set Healthy Boundaries

Setting boundaries in relationships and activities can help minimize anxiety. Useful tips include:

• Say “no” to extra responsibilities when feeling overwhelmed.
• Limit time on social media and news if they increase worry.
• Communicate needs clearly to others. For example, “I need some alone time right now.”
• Take breaks from stressful situations when possible. Even short breaks help.
• Prioritize self-care like alone time, hobbies and relaxation.

Seek Wise Counsel

Getting help from others can help overcome anxiety. Useful strategies include:

• Talk to trusted friends and family who can offer support.
• Join a support group, online or in-person. Shared experiences help.
• See a mental health professional like a therapist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective for anxiety.
• Consult your doctor about anti-anxiety medication if needed. SSRIs and benzodiazepines can help.
• Try prayer, meditation, or reading the Bible. God offers comfort and peace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, God clearly instructs His followers throughout Scripture to reject crippling fear and anxiety, instead nurturing courage, faith and peace through relying fully on His sovereign goodness and care.

Believers are exhorted to pray about everything, redirect their thoughts onto biblical truths and righteous things that reflect God’s nature, trust in the Holy Spirit’s power to conquer fear, and take practical steps to reduce life stresses.