3 Simple Verses for the Anxious Mom

I see you... Sometimes the anxiety is so overwhelming it keeps you up at night. The racing thoughts, tension headaches, and days haunted with dread are very real symptoms of what I call stinking thinking.

It's easy to form negative thought patterns that create a domino effect or downward spiral.  One anxious thought begets another, then another, and then another.  If we're not careful, the presence of anxiety can multiply in our mind and grow into chronic anxiety or even depression.

I've been in those dark places.  Some of them couldn't be avoided but became testimonies of God's grace at work in my life, triggered by infertility, job losses, and health issues.  He carried us through and provided new mercy every morning, just as He does for you.

But there were other worries - anxieties - that only needed some passionate prayer and a perspective shift.

That's where the Word comes in - You can fight anxiety with the Word and be victorious!

Here are 3 simple verses to meditate on when anxiety creeps in:

1.  Psalm 34:4 – I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

How can you seek the Lord?  Through worship, prayer, and Bible reading.  Focus on these key disciplines during your most anxious moments, and He'll show Himself strong.  He'll either deliver you from the fear and anxiety, or show you His strength by carrying you through.  He'll give you the wisdom to move past fear into a place of peace.

2.  Psalm 86:15 – But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.

His compassion is for YOU.  He is gracious towards YOU.  He is not angry with you, but rather He loves you with an extravagant love and he is faithful to see you through your struggles!

3.  Philippians 4:11 – I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

There are times I've had to resolve in my mind that I was going to be content with where I was, regardless of the circumstances around me.  I would worship despite the thorn in my side.  I would pray,"God, if it's not Your plan to change my situation, then help me be content. Help me pray through this.  If You won't change _____, then please change me.  Give me the grace to get to the other side and give You glory."

Precious mama, you are not “less than” or damaged goods.

None of us are perfect. We all have struggles. Satan will try to whisper lies in your ear; fight them with prayer and the word.

God has a plan for you! You are fearfully and wonderfully made by a God who loves you more than you could ever imagine!

In grace,

Jaime, Like a Bubbling Brook

(Note: If you feel your anxiety is severe and could be more than a spiritual struggle, you’ll find my post on depression and chronic anxiety helpful. There may be other causes to consider, such as hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficiencies.)

What verses have you found helpful during times of anxiety?  Leave a comment and share your favorites.  We'd love to know!

Jaime is the creator of Like a Bubbling Brook, a web site for moms who embrace grace.  She's a pastor's wife and mom who lives life in awe of the grace of God.