Have you ever struggled with anxiety? Many people—especially women—would likely say yes. But what is anxiety? At its core, anxiety can be described as a feeling of dread, uneasiness, fear, worry, or uncertainty.

From a biblical standpoint, anxiety is not a new concept, nor is it something the Bible ignores. Scripture is filled with examples of people who experienced what we would describe today as anxiety, fear, and emotional distress. A few well-known figures come to mind.

King David, for example, openly expressed deep anguish in Psalm 55, saying, “Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me.” His words reflect emotions many of us can relate to—even today.

Another example is Martha in the New Testament (Luke 10:38–42). When Jesus visits her home, her sister Mary sits at His feet, listening to Him teach. Meanwhile, Martha is busy preparing, overwhelmed, distracted, and frustrated. She eventually asks Jesus, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” Jesus responds gently, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better.”

What is Jesus telling Martha? In essence, He is reminding her that what she is anxiously striving to accomplish can wait. What matters most in that moment is being present with Him. This passage highlights how anxiety can pull us into distraction and away from what truly matters.

Anxiety, then, is not a modern struggle. It is something people have experienced throughout history. There is comfort in knowing that when we feel anxious, we are not alone.

Root Causes of Anxiety

What contributes to anxiety? Scripture points to several underlying factors:

One common source is fear of the future. In Matthew 6:34, Jesus teaches us not to worry about tomorrow, reminding us that each day has enough trouble of its own. This encourages us to remain present rather than becoming overwhelmed by what lies ahead.

Another source is concern about provision—worrying about having enough food, clothing, or shelter. In Matthew 6:31, Jesus addresses this directly: “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’” He reassures us that God knows our needs and will provide.

A third factor is the feeling of being alone, forgotten, or isolated. The Psalms often express this struggle, as David cries out in moments when he feels distant from God. Yet Scripture consistently reminds us that we are never alone. Jesus promises His presence in Matthew 28:20, and Psalm 34:18 tells us that God is close to the brokenhearted.

A fourth contributing factor is a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty. God is the ultimate ruler and sustainer of all things (Psalm 115:3). When we lose sight of His authority and goodness, anxiety can begin to take hold.

Practical Strategies for Dealing with Anxiety

Scripture also offers practical guidance for navigating anxiety:

First, we are called to renew our minds (Romans 12:2). This means intentionally focusing on truth rather than being shaped by anxious thoughts. Spending time in Scripture and centering our thoughts on Christ can help shift our perspective.

Second, we are encouraged to cultivate gratitude. First Thessalonians 5:18 calls us to “give thanks in all circumstances.” Practicing thankfulness helps reorient our hearts and minds toward what is good and true.

Third, prayer and worship are essential. Whether through personal prayer, music, or corporate worship, these practices help us acknowledge God’s power and presence. The Psalms beautifully demonstrate how even in hardship, praise remains central.

Fourth, we are meant to seek wise counsel and live in community. Proverbs 11:14 emphasizes the value of guidance, and Galatians 6:2 calls us to bear one another’s burdens. We are not meant to walk through life—or anxiety—alone.

Finally, we are reminded to recall God’s faithfulness. God is faithful, meaning He keeps His promises. The story of Abraham and Sarah is a powerful example: though they waited many years for a child, God ultimately fulfilled His promise. Reflecting on how God has been faithful in the past can strengthen our trust in the present.

Conclusion

If you are struggling with anxiety, you are not alone. Turn to Christ in the midst of it. Focus on the present rather than becoming overwhelmed by the future. Practice gratitude. Seek Him in prayer and worship. Surround yourself with supportive community. And remember the ways God has been faithful.

Even in anxiety, His presence remains constant.