When Anxiety Tries to Take the Wheel

All of us at any given time have dealt with or will deal with anxiety. Anxiety is an emotional reaction that is triggered when we can't figure out how to resolve something that is problematic or when what comes our way is overwhelming and appears insurmountable. When the outcome feels uncertain, anxiety often masks itself as a comforting friend, only to drain out our energy and our faith.

Friends, anxiety is not God-given, rather it is fear-driven. Fear that what we dread will come to pass. Fear that the answers we are hoping for will not be favorable. Rather than walking in the fear of what ‘could be,’ Take a moment to realize your creator has your best interest at heart. King David said it like this, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Friends, you and I were never meant to carry anxiety. You and I were created to carry the presence of God.

The scripture encourages us to cast all of our cares upon God because He cares for us. That word, cast in the Greek, is the word ‘epirrhiptō.’ It means to throw upon or to forcefully hurl something onto. It carries the same idea as a fisherman who forcefully throws their net onto the water when they go fishing. When we see the waves of anxiety crashing into us, this is not the time to become fearful. We are to forcefully hurl ourselves into the presence of God to go fishing for miraculous outcomes.

Here’s the thing: When anxiety shows up, it doesn’t just attack our minds—it attacks our expectations. It attempts to diminish our faith. It convinces us that God won’t come through, that we’re alone, and that the worst-case scenario is the most likely scenario. Friends, anxiety is a liar that speaks in the language of “what if.” But faith speaks in the language of “even if.”

Even if the door doesn’t open the way I planned… God is still good.
Even if the money doesn’t stretch… God is still a provider.
Even if the diagnosis isn’t what I wanted… God is still a healer.
Even if I don’t have the answer today… God is still sovereign.

The Apostle Paul says it like this “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Notice the promise: God doesn’t always remove the problem instantly, but He does release peace immediately. Just like I tell my children: it is impossible to do anything good when you’re thinking about something bad. The reason God gives us peace is so that we might have the capacity to comprehend His divine wisdom for a favorable outcome.

Friends, don’t let anxiety dictate your day, your joy, or your attitude. Through prayer, faith, and determination, forcefully give to God the thoughts of your heart. When you do this, peace will accompany you and usher in answered prayers, unexpected breakthroughs, and favorable outcomes.