Most reading plans will begin with a study outline like the one you see here. As you study, you can refer back to this outline to remind yourself of key points and Scripture passages related to the topic.
Overcoming Anxiety, Worry, Fear, or Stress
In any case, make sure to read your Bible every day to center your mind for that day! You need this every day!
For Anxiety:
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Be present with and focused on whatever is in front of you (Matthew 6:34).
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Just be, and rejoice in the little things of God's creation around you (Psalm 118:24).
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Don't worry about what you can't control, as God is in charge of that. Don't focus on future outcomes. Focus on daily actions and integrity.
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Focus on and be diligent in few, important things (Colossians 3:23 NIV, Ecclesiastes 4:6), rather than doing too many things poorly (Colossians 3:23 NIV).
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In other words, don't try to do too many things. Do few, essential things, and focus on doing them well—to your fullest ability. This will help clear and focus your mind. Focusing on being diligent in whatever you are doing in the present helps you to focus on the present. This keeps your mind from drifting to anxiety or overthinking.
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Practice consistent prayer and gratitude (Philippians 4:6-8, 1 Peter 5:7, Psalm 55:22, Isaiah 26:3).
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Give thanks and pray for God's help in everything you can think of. This is how you cast your cares on Him. Make special effort to pray out-loud and in english. This will engage and focus your mind on godly thoughts.
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Also pray for others. There are times that praying for others will help you more than praying for yourself. Praying for others will get your mind off of your own issues.
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Daily practice of reading and meditating on the Word of God (Psalm 119:165, Romans 8:5-6).
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Read scriptures that deal especially with finding peace in tumultuous moments. The Psalms are great for this.
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Build and maintain an orderly and well-managed life (1 Corinthians 14:33, Isaiah 32:17, Jeremiah 29:7, Mark 4:19-20), uninhibited by the cares of the world.
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If you work to keep the affairs of your work, finances, and household organized and orderly, you will have nothing to be anxious or worried about. Rather, you will have quietness and focus.
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Daily practice stillness. Sit in a dark room, plug your ears, cover your eyes; just pray, take deep breaths, and listen. This will also grow your ability to hear the Spirit.
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Scripture commands us to take time for meditation/stillness in order to quiet the mind (Psalm 4:4, 46:10).
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Also practice focusing on your breathing throughout your day.
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For Worry and Fear:
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Remind yourself often that basic needs are always provided (Matthew 6:25-33). If there is ever lack, you can always find work to gain more.
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Remember that physical death or harm is nothing (Psalm 118:6, Matthew 10:28). Focus on eternal life, not physical life.
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Remember that God is always in control, and everything in your life happens according to His will (Matthew 10:29-31).
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God will not allow you to be tempted with something that's beyond what you're able to handle, so know that He always keeps you safe (1 Corinthians 10:13).
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And God will work everything out for your good in the end (Romans 8:28-29).
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Remember that Christ is with you at all times, and you are protected by Him(Hebrews 13:5-6, Psalm 91:2-6, Psalm 23:4).
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Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33)!
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Grow your belief/trust in God by taking action! Any act of obedience to the Word will grow your faith, so grow in obedience (James 2:14-26).
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Especially, face things that intimidate you! And through growing trust in that action, your fears will fade away (2 Timothy 1:6-7, Psalm 56:3, Psalm 112:6-8, Proverbs 29:25).
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Gideon, a formerly fearful man, became strong as he took action to face his fears (Hebrews 11:32-34, Judges 6-8).
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Do not give fearful thoughts any time to linger, nor entertain them. Instead, cast them down by praying and reminding yourself of what the Word says (2 Corinthians 10:4-5, Ephesians 6:17-18).
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Grow in wisdom and resources as preparedness for situations in life (Proverbs 31:21).
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Learn Proverbs! Practical wisdom will help you understand how to handle tricky situations, which will help you not to be afraid of them (Proverbs 3:21-26).
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You can also read through the Bible looking for troubling situations that people encountered, and see how God taught them to handle the situation. Apply these examples as wisdom for your life.
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For Stress (also good for anxiety):
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Practical things to do -
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Get consistent, strenuous exercise and stretch (a tense body causes a tense mind).
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Focus on your breathing.
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Incorporate joyful activities into your schedule more, and with friends if need be.
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Listen to worship music and/or sing about God. Choose to rejoice (Psalm 94:19, Psalm 59:14-17).
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