Bible Verses about Anxiety: Turning to God’s Word

When life feels out of control, anxiety can build and overwhelm us. These difficult seasons can bring relational problems, financial downfalls, little to no resources, and insecurity. You may feel stretched beyond your capacity, trying to do everything and meet every need.

Anxiety winds its way through our subconscious on a deeper level when pressure builds. As a result, it can cause physical and emotional distress. However, turning to God and studying Bible verses about anxiety can fill your spirit with hope and peace even in the midst of uncertainty.

Bible verses about anxiety.

Life is a blessing, yet it is also problematic. We face challenges, hardships, grief, and loss. Jesus warned us that life would not be easy, but to trust Him during the difficult seasons.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. – John 16:33, NIV

We know that Jesus conquered sin and death. With Him by our side, we have hope unlike any other. But unfortunately, you cannot always avoid pain and stress. There are several causes for this overwhelming pressure, including past sin, leaning on our strength instead of God’s strength and mercy, unavoidable changes or life events, procrastination, or negligence.

Peter’s example.

When we deliberately sin, it can rack us with anxiety and grief. Take Peter, for example. This man was a loyal disciple of Jesus, but Peter faltered when faced with inevitable persecution and death. When Jesus looked at Peter, Peter’s disappointment in himself and grief caused him to feel ashamed and full of anxiety.

Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. – Luke 16:60-62, NIV

Yet, we know that Jesus forgave Peter. He knew that Peter loved Him above all, and Jesus built His church on Peter’s faith. That did not stop Peter from feeling enormous stress and anxiety during this time, especially after Jesus’ ascension. But he knew that Jesus walked with him daily, which made the anxiety manageable.

Mary’s example.

Think about Mary, the mother of Jesus. She was pledged to Joseph, a righteous man. The Bible recounts that Joseph learns that Mary is expecting a child that is not his. The anxiety he must have felt had to be intense. He would have been responsible for her banishment or death if he had publicly condemned her. Instead, he decided the best way to handle the situation was to divorce her.

Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. – Matthew 1:19, NIV

Thankfully, the Lord sent an angel to inform Joseph that this child was God’s will and that Joseph and his lineage played a massive part in fulfilling the prophecy. But can you imagine the anxiety that tried to overwhelm Joseph over the years as he was in charge of raising the Son of God? He needed to rely on God daily with this challenge, and you can rely on God to help you with your challenges as well.

Anxiety after major life changes.

Life events such as marriage, pregnancy, a new baby, divorce, moving to a new home, or loss can create intense pressure. As a result, stress and anxiety are sure to build, especially when combined with other stressors.

For example, take a newly divorced mother who has to find a new home for herself and her child while dealing with the loss of an income and the grief of the relationship. This woman may be filled with anxiety about meeting their present needs and worrying about the future.

But, if the divorced mother can shift her perspective, it may ease some anxiety as she figures out how to make ends meet. This set of challenges is carving her character into someone stronger, someone with a story who can help other women one day, and a woman who relies on God’s wisdom and strength to make it through.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. – James 1:2-4, NIV

Anxiety and doubt.

The first chapter of James continues to instruct us on how to gain wisdom during challenging seasons.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. – James 1:5, NIV

But you must believe without a doubt when you ask God. That takes shifting your perspective to see the opportunities and not the problems. If we could see the whole set of life events all at once for ourselves, we would probably never voluntarily go through them. It takes fire and pressure to refine and create something beautiful.

Anxiety related to others.

Sometimes it is because of others that we experience stress and anxiety. When others control a situation, it is difficult not to feel worried. When people make mistakes, betray you, or let you down, you must forgive them. Unfortunately, unforgiveness traps you in worry, frustration, bitterness, regret, and resentment.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. – Colossians 3:13, NIV

For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. – Matthew 6:14-15, NIV

God is with us. He walks beside us thanks to His Son, Jesus. He will never leave you nor forsake you. When you know that God surrounds you and that He has your back, you can hold your head high and keep moving forward despite your circumstances.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10, NIV

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. – Psalm 55:22, NIV

Anxiety over abandonment.

We study Bible verses about anxiety because God placed them into His Word so we could lean on them during challenging times. We need reassurance that He is with us. Repeatedly, the Bible tells us not to fear and that the Lord will not allow us to be shaken.

Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. – Psalm 62:2, NIV

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. – John 14:1, NIV

Jesus faced anxiety, too.

Jesus felt anxiety on this earth as he approached the cross. Yet, He trusted and leaned into God to get Him through it. As believers, we have the same access to God. Lean into Him and trust that He is in control. Ask Him for peace that surpasses all understanding, wisdom to make the right decisions, and favor from both God and people who can make a difference in your situation.

But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. – James 1:6, NIV

When you are overwhelmed by anxiety.

Anxiety can seem crippling and spark panic attacks. If you’re looking for additional support beyond these Bible verses for anxiety, reach out to our office today. We would love to discuss scheduling an appointment with a licensed Christian counselor.

Your counselor specializes in evidence-backed psychological methods combined with Bible-based principles to help you overcome anxiety and strengthen your relationship with Jesus Christ. Studying and memorizing Bible verses about anxiety is only the first step. Reach out to us today to learn how to manage your stress.