Anxiety can be overwhelming, draining, and all-consuming. It can leave us feeling helpless, restless, and afraid.
As Christians, we are called to trust in God’s plan and to cast all our anxieties on Him.
But how do we do that? How do we surrender our fears and worries to God when they seem to have such a hold on us?
Let’s look at some practical steps you can take to surrender your anxiety and trust in God’s love and faithfulness.
Acknowledge your anxiety
The first step to surrendering your anxiety to God is to acknowledge that it’s there.
We can’t give something over to God if we’re not willing to admit that it’s weighing us down.
Take some time to sit with your anxiety, listen to what it’s telling you, and give yourself permission to feel the fear and uncertainty it’s causing.
Cast your anxiety to God
Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the righteous to be moved.”
Take a moment to pray and tell God exactly what it is that’s causing you anxiety.
Then, as you prayerfully surrender it to Him, trust in His faithfulness to take care of you.
Distract yourself with other activities
Rather than ruminating on your anxious thoughts, try to find something else to focus on.
This could be a fun activity, like going for a walk or playing some music, or it could be an engaging task like reading a book or doing something creative.
Give yourself permission to take a break and do something that brings you joy and peace.
Stay connected to your faith
Spend time reading the Bible, listening to a sermon online, or connecting with other believers in your church community.
When we’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed, it’s easy to turn away from God.
But as believers, we can trust in His promises and lean into Him for strength and comfort.
Remind yourself that God is in control
Take a few moments to practice gratitude and remind yourself of the blessings in your life.
Talk to God and thank Him for His faithfulness, for His love, and for the strength He gives you to face whatever challenges life throws your way.
Pray and meditate
Talk to God about your anxiety, share your fears, and ask Him to help you trust in His plan.
Meditating on Scripture can also be a helpful way to calm your mind and center your heart on God’s promises.
Psalm 46:10 reminds us to “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Read your Bible more
God’s Word is a source of comfort and hope in times of anxiety. It provides reassuring reminders that God is with us and that He cares for us.
Take time to read Scripture, meditate on it, and let its words speak life into your soul.
There are many Scripture verses that can provide comfort during stressful times.
Some of these include, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6), and “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
Take action
While surrendering your anxiety to God does require faith, it doesn’t mean you have to sit back and do nothing.
For some people, taking action can actually help to relieve some of the anxiety they’re feeling.
This could be as simple as making a to-do list, setting healthy boundaries, or seeking out professional help if needed.
Practice self-care
Self-care is essential when dealing with anxiety. Take time to care for your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Ensure that you get adequate sleep and exercise, eat healthy food, and connect with other people in your community.
Surround yourself with people who encourage you to follow Christ and speak words of life into you.
Surround yourself with support
We are not meant to go through life’s struggles alone.
Seek out the support of other Christians who can pray with you, encourage you, and remind you of God’s truth.
If you don’t have anyone in your personal life that you feel comfortable talking to, consider joining a support group or online community.
Practice gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful antidote to anxiety.
Take some time each day to reflect on the things that bring you joy and to thank God for His goodness.
Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, there is always something to be grateful for.
Seek Professional Help
Finally, there may be times when seeking professional help is necessary.
If you have been struggling with anxiety, talk to a counselor, therapist, or spiritual advisor.
They can offer guidance and resources to aid in your healing and can help you recognize areas where you need to be vigilant.
It is especially important that you continue to seek God in these painful times so that you will have the strength to walk through them victoriously.
Surrendering your anxiety to God is not a one-time event, but a daily practice of trust and faith.
It takes time, effort, and a willingness to let go of control.
But the peace and freedom that come from surrendering our worries to God are worth it. Remember that God loves you and that He is with you always.
As Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “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.”
