Devotional: Overcoming Anxiety

Written by Lilah Scheewe

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” - 1 Peter 5:7

In this passage Peter was writing to believers facing persecution and uncertainty; encouraging them to stay humble and trust God. The verb “casting” is in the Greek tense that implies a once-for-all action - throwing your cares onto God, rather than holding on to them.

This verse follows 1 Peter 5:6 which calls for humility; casting our anxieties is actually an act of humility, recognizing our dependence on God. Whatever things concern a follower of God, whether they are spiritual or not, whether they are great or small, God concerns himself with them. What affects us affects him. God cares so greatly for us he invites us to place every burden on him, just as Jesus bore our greatest burden on the cross.

When anxiety rises, remind yourself that giving worries to God is not weakness; it’s an act of trust and humility. He feels for us when we are suffering because often when we are suffering our relationship with God suffers too. Don’t forget that God doesn't only care about the big problems he also cares about the small ones. Don’t carry this weight alone, let God in so he can help you. Know that God can sustain you.

Some everyday practices that you could try include; every morning or evening, name specific worries out loud or in a journal and pray, “Lord, I give this to You”. If you are more of a visual person then you could write down anxieties on paper and physically place the paper in a box or shred it as a symbol of casting them on God.

For changes you could make in your life, it would be things like; sharing burdens with a trusted friend or mentor as a way to “cast” cares and not isolate yourself. You could respond with worship: when anxiety comes, choose to thank God for His care—turning worry into worship. Look for his care in the week: At the end of each week, list moments where God showed His faithfulness. This strengthens trust for future worries.

Here’s a prayer for you to leave with:

Dear Heavenly Father,

I would like to pray for all the people reading this and even the ones who aren't. I hope that this message will help them overcome their anxiety and stress and give it to you, Lord. I know you love each and every one of us so much and don’t want to see us in pain. Lord, we thank you for the sacrifice you made for us, dying on the cross.

Amen.