A few months ago, I found myself sitting in the dentist’s chair, waiting to get four wisdom teeth removed. To say that I felt anxious is an understatement! I was so nervous I couldn’t even think of what to pray. I felt overwhelmed in all the sensory category.
In that moment all I could think to do was take a deep breath- then these words came to my mind:
“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”
Suddenly my heart rate slowed down, my fists unclenched, and I didn’t feel like bursting into tears anymore. Prayer often has that effect- especially when we anchor it in God’s word.
The Power of Prayer in Anxiety
Philippians 4:6-7
“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.”
When anxiety creeps in, prayer can be your anchor. Here are a few simple ways to help you pray when you’re feeling overwhelmed:
- Take a deep breath. You might not be able to step away from your situation but you can stop and take a deep breath. Deep, slow breaths- especially those that begin in the abdomen- signal the body to relax and release tension. Isn’t it amazing how God created our bodies to do that!
- Be honest with God. God already knows how you feel. Unburden yourself and let Him know what’s going on. God desires a genuine relationship with you, and that includes sharing your whole self, not just the parts you think are acceptable.
- Use scripture.
Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
It’s very helpful to have a few scriptures memorized but don’t worry if you don’t. A quick Google search is a great help for this! Search for scriptures on whatever you are struggling with. I will type in: scriptures for dealing with stress, fear, grief, ect. Once you have that, write them down. Grab a notecard or use a notes app on your phone. As you go through your day, pull them out and say them out loud. Remind your heart of the truth in those words and pray for that to settle your soul.
Favorite Verses and Simple Prayers for Anxiety
- Psalm 23: “Lord, you are my shepherd. You provide for all my needs, and I shall not want. Thank you for leading me beside still waters where my soul can find rest and renewal. Direct my steps, Lord. When I feel lost or unsure, remind me that I can always run into your loving arms for guidance and comfort. I know you are with me. Even when it’s hard to see or understand what you are doing, I trust that you are leading me to places of rest and restoration. Amen”
- John 14:27 “Lord, I need help today, seeking the peace that You promised to us in John 14:27. I know that Your peace is unlike the world’s, a peace that surpasses all understanding and comforts our hearts in times of trouble. I ask that You fill my heart with Your peace, helping me to trust You even when I feel afraid or anxious.”
- Isaiah 41:10 “Lord, thank you for the promise in Isaiah 41:10. I’m so glad you’re with me, that you’re my God, and that you give me strength and help. Even when I feel scared or overwhelmed, I choose to trust you. Hold me up and lead me through whatever comes. Help me lean on your promises and find my strength in you. Amen.”
- Psalm 37:25 “Lord, thank you for always taking care of me. Your Word promises in Psalm 37 that you never leave the people who love you, and you always give them what they need. I trust you to take care of me and my family. Help me do what’s right and show those around me how to follow you too. Remind me of your goodness. Thank you for being my provider. Amen.”
- Psalm 4:8 “Lord, as I lie down to sleep tonight, I thank you that in your presence I can find peace. I ask that you would grant me restful sleep and guard my dreams. Help me to rest secure in your love and protection, knowing that you are always with me. Amen.”
Anxiety is real. It can feel heavy and discouraging. We’ve all been there. Don’t give up.
Pray. Read scripture. Turn your thoughts to the Lord.
Phillipians 4:8
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
