Hope For Anxious Times

Today’s post is a little bit different from usual.

I wrote a couple of weeks ago about the anxiety that many of us are feeling right now, and recommended the book “Anxious For Nothing” by Max Lucado.  In it, he encourages us to change our focus – to lift our eyes from our worries to look at God and remember his goodness.

So, today I’m sharing a collection of songs, quotes and Bible verses to help us do just that.  I hope you find something to encourage you!

I Will Fear No More – The Afters

“You’re my courage when I worry in the dead of night
You’re my strength ’cause I’m not strong enough to win this fight
You are greater than the battle raging in my mind
I will trust You, Lord
I will fear no more.”

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.  Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”  (Psalm 23:4 NLT)

Sparrows – Jason Gray

“If He can hold the world, He can hold this moment
Not a field or flower escapes His notice
Oh, even the sparrow knows
He holds tomorrow.”

“What is the price of two sparrows – one copper coin?  But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it.  And the very hairs on your head are all numbered.  So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a while flock of sparrows.”  (Matthew 10:29-31 NLT)

O My Soul – Casting Crowns

“Oh, my soul,
You are not alone
There’s a place where fear has to face the God you know
One more day, He will make a way
Let Him show you how, you can lay this down
‘Cause you’re not alone.”

“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.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT)

“Where does your security lie? Is God your refuge, your hiding place, your stronghold, your shepherd, your counselor, your friend, your redeemer, your saviour, your guide? If He is, you don’t need to search any further for security.” (Elisabeth Elliot)

“It is not logic or criticism or shame that defeats our worries, but grasping Jesus’ perfect love and allowing it to transform us…  He doesn’t call us to deal with our burdens ourselves before we come to him, but to come with them and, when we do, he doesn’t condemn us for carrying them.  He takes them from us and gives us rest.” (from Can Worry Add To Your Life?)

What about you?  If you have any favourite songs, Bible verses or quotes that help you in anxious times, feel free to share in the comments.