Biblical Answer

Understanding Anxiety and Fear

Anxiety and fear are natural emotions that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. However, when these emotions become overwhelming, they can hinder our ability to trust God. In Psalm 56:3, David says, "When I am afraid, I will trust in you." This verse reminds us that trusting God is not about feeling calm or peaceful all the time, but about choosing to put our faith in Him even when we're afraid. When we're anxious, it's easy to get caught up in our own thoughts and worries, but we need to learn to bring our requests to God with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6-7). This means acknowledging our fears and anxieties, but also choosing to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness.

Practical Steps to Trusting God

So, how can we practically trust God when we feel anxious? First, we need to establish a daily personal time with God, where we talk to Him and He talks to us as friends. This is when we can bring our fears and anxieties to Him and receive His peace and guidance (Psalm 57:4-5). Second, we need to learn to be still and trust in God's ability to protect us, even when circumstances seem uncertain or threatening (Psalm 46:10). This means choosing to relax in our relationship with God, rather than getting anxious and trying to control the situation ourselves. Finally, we need to believe steadfastly in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when we're facing challenges and difficulties (Hebrews 3:14). This means holding onto our confidence in God, even when we're tested and tempted to doubt.

Overcoming Anxiety through Faith

Ultimately, trusting God when we feel anxious requires faith. Faith is not about feeling calm or peaceful all the time, but about choosing to put our trust in God, even when we're afraid. As C. H. Mackintosh said, "Faith raises the soul above the difficulty, straight to God Himself, and enables one to stand still." When we trust God, we're not trying to control the situation or solve the problem ourselves, but rather we're giving Him space to work and provide for us. This means being still, trusting in His goodness and sovereignty, and believing steadfastly in His ability to protect us. By doing so, we can overcome anxiety and fear, and experience the peace and confidence that comes from knowing God is with us.