What God says about Worrying

Worrying is not all that bad, but when it becomes a habitual routine, it will cause destruction to your mind, body and soul.  I am a chronic worrier, and I will share what I've learnt to reduce my panic attacks.  There are some tips I learnt from the bible, and some through self-teaching of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and handy guidelines from my support system (e.g. cell groups, pastors, lecturers, and therapist).

Over the months of joining and dealing with those who are struggling with excessive worrying thoughts and somewhat anxiety symptoms, I reasoned out that nothing works best compared to the solid words from the bible.  Even though medication, supplements, vitamins (e.g. whatever that is consumable) helps in reducing chances of relapse or anticipation of anxious pangs, effects only last for a few hours with lingering disastrous effects of wanting an increased dosage.

Natural anxiety relief techniques such as relaxation, breathing therapy works best before an actual scenario about to take place.  Even though techniques such as cognitive restructuring are able to capture pre-concious anxious thoughts, I would say that is not good enough as thoughts occurred within split-second.  Leaving anxious patients wonder upon the thoughts of "What was I thinking about....." that actually increase overwhelming of anxiety.

However, it is undeniable that anxious patients need a major makeover in regards of their thought structuring. Because of self-fulfilling prophecy, they actually anticipates the next panic which is ALWAYS A VICIOUS CYCLE! When then will it end?

Personally, (as different people will have different ways of coping :A disclaimer) I would say the best is reading the solid words from God. Why do I say so? Anxiety can be briefly described as a person who worries about uncertainty.  Because of uncertainty, these people would be anxious and this contributes to worrying thoughts.  If you are certain that God governs your future, what is there to worry then?

So, I have decided that I'd like to spend my time more wisely and more enjoyably. If you're not convinced yet to give up your worrying, here are four biblical reasons not to worry.

1. Worrying Accomplishes Absolutely Nothing.
   I don't know about you, but I don't have any time to waste these days. And worrying is a waste of very precious time. Worrying won't help you solve a problem or bring about a solution, so why waste your time and energy on it?
   Matthew 6:27-29 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. (NLT)
2. Worrying is Not Good for You.
   Worrying is destructive to us in many ways. It becomes a mental burden that can even cause us to grow physically sick.
   Proverbs 12:25 Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. (NLT)
3. Worrying is the Opposite of Trusting God.
   The energy that we spend worrying can be put to much better use in prayer. Here's a little formula to remember: Worry replaced by Prayer equals Trust.
   Matthew 6:30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?(NLT)
   Philippians 4:6-7 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.(NLT)
4. Worrying Puts Your Focus in the Wrong Direction.
   When we keep our eyes focused on God, we remember his love for us and we realize we truly have nothing to worry about. God has a wonderful plan for our lives, and part of that plan includes taking care of us. Even in the difficult times, when it seems like God doesn't care, we can put our trust in the Lord and focus on his kingdom. God will take care of our every need.
   Matthew 6:25 That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life-whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing?(NLT)
   Matthew 6:31-33 So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. (NLT)
   1 Peter 5:7  Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT)
5. I hope this will encourage you to move on (An intrapersonal conversation)

There is might be an occurrence of relapse, but I would say that The formula to self-recovery is Faith+Believe+Trust in God = Freedom of anxious bondage.

Did I mention I no longer constipate?  Hohoho, Go do sit-ups! It helps in combating abdominal fat and pushes the shit out of you.. Hahahaha.. *Sorry*

Jesus, Lead me to your way and sow the good seeds that lead me not to destruction. Amen.