IS IT WRONG TO BE ANXIOUS?

Living with Anxiety and What To Do About It?

Over and over again the Bible tells us, “Fear not!” and “Do not be anxious.” That’s nice advice. But, then life hits us and a little nice advice isn’t always enough. Or is it a commandment? If I suffer from anxiety does that mean that I am being disobedient to God? Is it a sin to be anxious? These are questions that can haunt any devoted follower of Christ who deals with fear and anxiety.

 

Is Anxiety a Sin?

I will address some of the theological questions in my next blog article, “5 Things Jesus Said About Fear and Anxiety.” For now, let me just make a few observations:

  • Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year.
  • Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only 36.9% of those suffering receive treatment.
  • People with an anxiety disorder are three to five times more likely to go to the doctor and six times more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric disorders than those who do not suffer from anxiety disorders.
  • Anxiety disorders develop from a complex set of risk factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events. 1

Obviously, this is an issue for many good people, including many devoted Christians. So, what can we do to find healing from our anxiety?

 

The Basics of Anxiety

 

In this podcast interview, counselor Jenna Mountain, explains the basics of anxiety and how it impacts the Christian life. Jenna and I reflect on some of the causes of anxiety and how we can reconcile the reality of anxiety disorders with our relationship with Jesus. Fear and anxiety are a part of the human condition. But, through a proper understanding of the brain, proven counseling strategies, and the power of God in our life, there is always hope for those who are living with anxiety.

 

 

 

Stay tuned for more on this topic in the coming days …