There are many difficult imperatives in the Bible. I would place anxiety on the top five list. Yes, God provides strength and wisdom to fight anxiety. The reality, however, is that we often live with its presence daily. After all, it is easy to be anxious about thinking about an anxious-free life. Children, family, relationships, finances, education all add to the notorious list.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
It’s important to add that anxiety in biblical categories is not avoiding all concerns. The anxiety the Bible addresses is not a concern for the well-being of a loved one who is traveling or the natural concerns for the health of a friend. Anxiety in the Bible is the all-consuming and imprisoned sensation of driving your life through the lens of our troubles and cares.
To live concerned with big or little things is not the problem. The problem stems from allowing these big and small concerns to drive your day-to-day. In fact, according to Paul, anxiety stems from a lack of gratitude and proper devotion to God. It is rare to find a grateful person who is driven by his/her anxiety.
Anxious people draw others into their anxiety. Are you that way? Do you use your anxiety to manipulate people? Or does your anxiety lead to petition and piety and praise to God? Our Lenten journey drives us to the crucified Jesus. He offered his petitions to his Father in heaven. Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, he directed his deepest yearnings and questions to the Divine Father who does all things well.
Prayer: Gracious and Holy Father, in love you created us; you made us to reflect your glory and to expect your future glory to be manifested in our lives. Forgive us when we blind ourselves to your blessings by anxieties that darken our minds. We wish to see clearly your future, and so, we pray, take away our anxious hearts and replace them with comforted hearts who know and trust in your tender care through Jesus Christ our Lord, amen.
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