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Do you struggle with worry or anxiety? If you have, have you ever thought, “If I really trusted God, wouldn’t I stop worrying?” Many people struggle with this painful question for two reasons: 1. They believe their anxiety means they lack faith. 2. The guilt they feel around anxiety is often heavier than the anxiety itself. So the question remains: Is anxiety evidence of faithlessness, or is there a more compassionate biblical perspective?
Since the late 18th century, and maybe even beyond, Christians have heard a variety of messages regarding the presence of faith and anxiety:
- “Just pray more.”
- “Give it to God.”
- “If you trusted Him, you wouldn’t worry.”
- “Choose the joy of the Lord.”
- “Anxiety is a sin.”
As a result, many Christians equate anxiety with a lack of faith. Shame surrounds each of these statements with the connotation that one “should be doing better or more.” It makes us feel spiritually defective, encourages us to hide our struggles (rather than seeking help), and creates confusion between emotions and spiritual maturity.
One important distinction that I see missed in a lot of Christian spaces is that feelings aren’t always choices. For example, anxiety is a human experience in a fallen world. Jesus told His Disciples in John 16:33 that we will experience trouble this side of Heaven. But faith is often demonstrated by what we do with that anxiety, not whether we experience it. To understand anxiety biblically, we first need to look at how Scripture describes it.
What Does the Bible Mean When It Talks About Anxiety?
One of the most commonly quoted Scriptures against the presence of anxiety is Philippians 4:6-7:
“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” (NIV).
Unfortunately, this verse has been taken out of context time and time again to mean we must never feel anxiety. They see it as a command.
For Biblical context, Paul is inviting believers into prayer and dependence. If you read the surrounding passage, you’ll notice this passage is his closing appeal for steadfastness and unity. The focus is a comfort. It’s not condemnation but redirection.
Scripture often acknowledges anxiety as a reality. Because it is just that—something many of us face. And yet, God’s response is one of frequent steadfast comfort and love. His presence and guidance, even when we’re worried. So why should we try to present it as anything different?
Psalm 94:19 says it this way:
“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”
What I love about this Psalm is that the psalmist openly admits his anxiety. But God doesn’t rebuke him for having it. He comforts him there. And he’s not alone in this comfort.
Similar to the psalmist, many other faithful people also experienced anxiety, fear, and distress in the Scriptures.