All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT
Scripture is such a vital part of life. It not only keeps our focus in phase by pointing us to Jesus, it provides us with both spiritual and practical instruction; teaching us about interpersonal relationships, ethics, finances, and so much more. It also provides instruction for self-care; not just spiritually, but also physically, and emotionally.
One of the most common ways in which our emotions get knocked out of phase is through anxiety. Life provides many opportunities to be anxious and yet scripture instructs us to be anxious in nothing, Philippians 4:6. This, we know, is easier said than done. So how do we keep from allowing anxiety to knock us out of phase? The same way we fight every other enemy, by knowing them and their weakness.
To know the enemy of anxiety is to recognize the lies it whispers. These lies include; you are alone, success or failure all depends on you, the responsibility for the situation at hand is yours and yours alone, you are not enough, this situation is too big for you, you are going to disappoint those around you, you just need to work harder, and on and on and on. So, how are we able to live each day anxious in nothing? By speaking truth to darkness and putting the usefulness of Scripture into practice. Here are a few verses to commit to memory.
When feeling as though you are not enough: I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 Berean Standard Bible
When feeling as though you are alone: Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ Isaiah 41:10 NKJV
When feeling the weight of the situation is all on you: And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 Berean Study Bible
Ephesians chapter six reminds us that our battle is not in the flesh, but rather in the spirit and that God’s word is our sword. We are able to keep anxiety at bay and our focus in phase when we know how to recognize our enemy and know our weapon. In this same text Paul writes that our feet are to shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace (v. 15).
Jesus’ gospel brings peace. It is this peace that allows us to be anxious in nothing. But, to walk this out in our daily life is to commit to preparing our heart through the study and memorization of His Word (our sword) that teaches us what is true and gives us everything we need to fight off the enemy’s attacks.
