Home Outreach Leaders How to Find Peace in an Anxious, Out-of-Control World

How to Find Peace in an Anxious, Out-of-Control World

[Jesus said,] “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:33-34, ESV)

The Lord is near. 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 4:5-7, NIV)

Come to me [Jesus], all who labor and are heavy laden…Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV)

My first panic attack was a nasty surprise. Never before had I felt like suicide was the only way to end the horror. The next time I felt one lurking I began to recite the following Psalm. I had to fight harder than I thought possible to get each word out but by the time I got through “the valley of the shadow” the words became easier and by the end I knew Jesus had led me to the other side. The third time, soon after I began speaking the words the attack stopped and has not returned:

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not lack. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for you are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalm 23 NKJV)

Let the Joy of the Lord Be Your Strength

Finally, fall in love with Jesus. “Take delight in the Lord” (Psalm 37:4, NLT). Marinate in God’s words and surround yourself with others who radiate His love. Take regular Sabbath breaks to spend truly quiet times—just you and Him (not you, Him and your smartphone)—listening and sharing your heart and “you will find rest for your soul.”

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NLT). Jesus promises that for now, this seemingly out-of-control world is here to stay. So is Jesus. “Never, no never will I leave you. Never, not ever will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Since “the Lord IS near” you really can choose to “not be anxious about anything.”

This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.