anxiety – Inner Beauty Bible Study

FICKLE FEELINGS CH 1: PEACE FOR ANXIETY

Before my first manic episode and diagnosis of bipolar disorder, I was still working as an occupational therapist. I began having mood swings which I attributed to PMS. The mood swing worsened and I became anxious because I had no answers. I began having panic attacks at work which affected my work. I finally had to take a leave of absence. Without the occupational therapy, I felt worthless. The anxiety still creeped into my everyday life. A couple of weeks after I took a leave of absence, I had my first manic episode. I felt like I had lost all control. It took a few years for the bipolar disorder to get under control due to medication. I found out that I learned many lessons from the bipolar disorder. I felt strengthened and the anxiety was replaced with His peace that passes all understanding. I praised God for His peace and His presence in my life.

MEMORY VERSE

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usually over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “to draw in different directions, distract…that which causes this, a care, especially an anxious care” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “a state of tranquility or quiet” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “the sense of rest and contentment” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

Anxiety is prevalent in today’s society. “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV). It indeed weighs a person down. Anxiety fills us with unrest and discomfort.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV).

Read Psalm 55:22. What are we to cast on the Lord?

What will God do in response?

What will God never let happen.

We all need the sustaining force that God offers. When we cast our cares on the Lord, He will indeed sustain us. We can then praise God for helping us through every trial we face.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1, NIV).

Read John 14:1. What are we not to let our hearts be?

What did Jesus desire for us to do?

When we believe in God, we can believe in Christ. God has the best in mind for us. However, anxiety can weigh our hearts and trouble us. Anxiety interferes with the peace that God offers.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3, NIV).

Read Isaiah 26:3. How is peace described?

What must our minds be to keep in perfect peace?

What do they do in God?

Trust brings peace. We must have steadfast minds to obtain perfect peace. When peace comes, we can draw near to God for help.

“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, NIV).

Read Psalm 34:14. What are we to turn from?

What are we to do?

What are we to seek and pursue?

When we seek peace and pursue it, our relationship with God is strengthened. Anxiety is not present in peace. We can then praise God for being close to us to help us do His will.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Read John 14:27. What did Jesus leave with His followers?

What did Jesus not give as?

What should we not let our hearts be?

What did Jesus say for us not to be?

What a marvelous gift of peace that Jesus left for us. We do not have to let our hearts be troubled or afraid as we seek God in all we do. We do not look at what the world gives because the world is filled with empty promises.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

We all experience anxiety from time to time. The good news is that we can turn to God for help in the midst of our trials. This will bring us His peace that passes all understanding.

Name a time when you felt anxious.

What trial was you facing?

How did you cry out to God?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did God bring you peace?

What marvelous peace we can have. We can praise God in the midst of our trials and obtain peace. We can then find the strength to face whatever comes our way.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I surrender my anxious cares to You this day. Fill me with Your peace that passes understanding. I praise and worship You for this peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday. Author unknown

Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength. C.H. Spurgeon

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

Peace is the tranquility of order. Augustine of Hippo

There is never any peace for those who resist God. Francois Fenelon

FEAR NOT CH 3: ANXIETY AND UNREST

I was diagnosed with PTSD as I began facing my past. Images of the past haunted me. I felt so overwhelmed. Anxiety filled me. I began having panic attacks. As I sought help for my pain, the counselor told me to take deep breaths and meditate. However, I found no comfort and rest for my anxious soul. It wasn’t until I reached out to God for help that I received rest. I began doing deep breathing saying, “Je,” when I inhaled and “sus” when I exhaled. This helped me to keep my focus on my Savior. Instead of worldly meditation where I found no help, God led me to meditate upon His Word. This led to rest for my weary soul. Although I still had deep emotional pain to address, God was there every step of the way.

MEMORY VERSE

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usually over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “to draw in different directions, distract…that which causes this…especially an anxious care” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

Fear creates anxiety and unrest in our souls. We no longer have peace but confusion. We may not know where to turn. The world encourages us to rely upon ourselves in the midst of our trials. However, God desires for us to come to Him.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV).

Read Psalm 55:22. What are we to cast on the Lord?

What will the Lord do?

What will the Lord never let the righteous be?

As I faced colon cancer, I learned quickly how easily anxiety could overwhelm me. However, God was right there for me. As I casted my cares upon Him, I experienced His peace that passes understanding. We can live in the moment as we cast our cares upon the Lord. This will eliminate our anxiety.

“Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight. Your statutes are always righteous; give me understanding that I may live” (Psalm 119:143-144, NIV).

Read Psalm 119:143-144. What two things came upon the psalmist?

What gave the psalmist delight?

What are God’s statutes always?

What did he pray for God to give him?

Why did he ask for understanding?

God’s Word indeed gives us delight. With understanding, God opens our eyes to the meaning of the living Word of God. We can look up Scriptures on peace to eliminate our anxiety and fear of what may come.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:33-34, NIV).

Read Matthew 6:33-34. What are we to seek first?

What will happen as a result?

What are we not to worry about?

What will tomorrow do?

What does each day have?

Worry creates anxiety. We can worry about a multitude of things, including things in the future. However, I learned as I cast my worries onto God, I realized that many of the things I was worried about never came to pass. This gave me peace to face whatever came my way. In the same way, we all can learn not to worry about something that may happen in the future but live in the moment and enjoy all the blessings God has for us.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV). Anxiety and unrest can indeed weigh us down. We can easily become overwhelmed by the situation because of fear. However, God desires for us to come to Him and surrender to Him for His peace.

Name a time when you experienced anxiety and unrest.

How did worry play a factor in this situation?

How did you feel?

How did you come to God?

How did you cast your cares upon Him?

How did this bring you peace?

How did you praise God for His peace?

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV). God cares for each one of us individually. He desires to come to our rescue from fear and anxiety if we only come to Him. When we come to Him, God is there for us with open arms ready to give us His peace that passes all understanding.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I come to You this day to bring You the worries and fears I am experiencing right now which is creating anxiety in my soul. Thank You for releasing me of my burdens as I come to You because You love me with an everlasting love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Do not anticipate trouble, or worry about what may never happen. Keep in the sunlight. Benjamin Franklin

Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength. C.H. Spurgeon

Oh, how great peace and quietness would he possess who should cut off all vain anxiety and place all his confidence in God. Thomas a Kempis

If you spend your whole life waiting for the storm, you’ll never enjoy the sunshine. Horace

Many of us crucify ourselves between two thieves – regret for the past and fear of the future. Author unknown

AT THE CROSS CH 4: CAST YOUR CARES

As I went through the healing from the pain of sexual abuse, I experienced anxiety and PTSD. I was deeply troubled. I felt overwhelmed. I thought if I could remember as much as possible in a short period of time, I would get over it sooner. However, this only brought a setback in my healing. I cried out to God. He helped me to see that I needed to come to Him for comfort and strength. I began to understand that the healing would take place little by little. As I faced my emotional pain little by little with God’s help, I didn’t become overwhelmed. I also learned to cast my care upon Him. I left my concerns at the foot of the cross. I learned through this process how much God cares for every little part of my life.

MEMORY VERSE

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Care…

Care is “a troubled or burdened state of mind; worry; concern” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “a disquieted state of mixed uncertainty, apprehension” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “to be anxious about, to have a distracting care” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV). We can feel the burden of our worries and cares when we try to carry them on our own. God never intended for it to be this way. He is ready and willing to take these burdens from us to lighten our spirit as we cast our cares on Him and leave our concerns at the foot of the cross.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV).

Read Psalm 55:22. What will the Lord do when we cast our cares on Him?

What will he never do?

God has promised in His Word to sustain us when we cast our cares upon the Lord. When we hold onto our cares and concerns, we feel overwhelmed and burdened. However, God will not let us be shaken when we cast our cares upon Him.

Read Matthew 6:33-34. What are we to seek first?

What will be given to us?

What are we not to worry about?

Why is this so?

What does each day have?

Worry overwhelms us with the concerns of tomorrow. However, God desires for us to live in the present. When we take one day at a time, we will be strengthened to face whatever comes our way with God’s strength instead of our own.

“The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop” (Luke 8:14-15, NIV).

Read Luke 8:14-15. What does the seed that fell among thorns stand for?

What are these people choked by?

What do they not do?

What does the seed on good soil stand for?

What do they do with the Word?

How do they produce a crop?

The seed among thorns stands for the cares of this world. We lose sight of Christ and His promises found in His Word and focus on the past and future. When we worry, we do not mature in our Christian walk. It is only when we place our trust upon the Solid Rock that we will mature and will not be shaken.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:27, NIV). Worry overwhelms us. We may be deceived into thinking that worrying is how we show love and concern for others. This is not true. However, when we cast our cares upon the Lord, we will not be shaken.

Name a time when you were worried about a family member or friend.

How did you feel?

How did you reach out to God for help?

How did you cast your cares upon the Lord?

How did this lift your burden off of you?

Our walk with God will be strengthened as we place our trust in Him. As we trust in Him to take care of our worries, we will mature in our relationship with Him. We can be assured of relief when we cast our cares upon Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I give you my worries that I have this day. Help me to always cast my cares upon You so that I will not be overwhelmed by them. Help me to live in the present. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Worry is like a rocking chair, it’ll give you something to do, but it won’t get you anywhere. Author unknown

I am free from worry…I am to cast all my cares upon Him. Author unknown

Tomorrow has two handles: the handle of fear and the handle of faith. You can take hold of it by either handle. Author unknown

He that fears not the future may enjoy the present. Thomas Fuller

Worry gives a small thing a big shadow. Swedish Proverb

JUBILANT JOY CH 1: JOY STEALERS

When I was away from the Lord in my teens and early twenties, depression, worry and anxiety filled me. Joy was so far away from my understanding. I remember being in the hospital for depression in my teens and feeling so helpless. I thought I knew what joy was because I escaped from the turmoil in my home by going shopping. However, this happiness never lasted. I also thought that I was loving others by worrying about them. This only filled me with anxiety and helplessness. I thank God for wooing me back to Him when I was 25. It would take time for God to help me through my joy stealers but eventually I knew what was stealing me of my joy and focused upon God to get me through. I eventually realized that the joy of the Lord is my strength.

MEMORY VERSE

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Worry…

Worry is “to feel distressed in the mind; be anxious, troubled or uneasy” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “mental distress or agitation” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usually over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). Anxiety is “a distracting care” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV). When we are under the pressure of anxiety and worry, we can feel overwhelmed. We may feel like we don’t know where to turn. However, the good news is that we can bring our anxiety and worry to God and He will cheer us up and give us peace.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV).

Read Psalm 55:22. What are we to cast on the Lord?

What will the Lord do?

What will God never let the righteous be?

“Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight” (Psalm 119:143, NIV). When in distress, we can turn to God’s Word for help. God will erase our worry and anxiety as we read the Bible and we can then experience delight and joy.

Read Matthew 6:33-34. What are we to seek first?

What will happen as a result?

What are we not to worry about?

What will worry about itself?

What does each day have?

This section of Scripture is about worry. These verses sum up what we are to seek after instead of worrying about what we eat or what we wear. We need not worry about tomorrow because God is in control of yesterday, today and tomorrow.

“And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after such things, and your Father knows that you need them” (Luke 12:29-30, NIV).

Read Luke 12:29-30. What are we not to set our heart on?

What are we not to do?

Who runs after these things?

What does God know?

Once again, worry is addressed in His Word. We are not to worry. When we worry, we can easily become overwhelmed. God knows our needs and desires to meet them if we come to Him for help.

Read Philippians 4:6-7. What we not to be anxious about?

By what are we to do in every situation?

With what are we to present our requests to God?

How is the peace of God described?

What will this peace guard?

We are not to be anxious about anything. I am grateful that the Lord placed these Scriptures on worry and anxiety into His Word. It helped me tremendously when I was struggled with anxiety and worry. When I brought my worries to God and left them there, I indeed experienced His peace that passes all understanding.

“In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears” (Psalm 18:6, NIV).

Read Psalm 18:6. In what did David call to the Lord?

What did he cry to God for?

How did God hear his voice?

What came before Him?

The answer to joy stealers is to cry out to the Lord. God promises to hear our cries for help. Anxiety and worry can be brought before God for His peace that passes understanding. We will then be set free from the joy stealers in our life.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV). Anxiety and worry can easily overwhelm us and steal our joy. God cares about every worry that we have. God never intended for us to carry these burdens. When we cast our anxiety on Him, we will experience His peace and His joy.

Name a time when you were worried about something.

How did anxiety affect you?

How did this affect your relationship with God?

How did you turn to God for help?

What Scripture spoke to you during this time?

How did you cast your care upon the Lord?

How did this bring you peace and joy?

Worry and anxiety can easily rear its ugly head in our everyday lives. The news is filled with bad news. When we focus on the bad of the world, we will easily become overwhelmed. However, when we fill our minds with God’s Word, we will experience peace once again.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I release my worries to You. Help me to experience your joy and peace once again as I leave them with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

If only the people who worry about their liabilities would think about the riches they do possess, they would stop worrying. Dale Carnegie

Fear and worry are interest paid in advance on something you may never own. Author unknown

Never try to carry tomorrow’s burdens with today’s grace. Author unknown

Worry is carrying a burden God never intended us to bear. Author unknown

Worry gives a small thing a big shadow. Swedish proverb

ABUNDANT LIVING CH 1: CAST YOUR CARES

“I’m worried about my sister.” “I’m worried about my mother.” I learned from an early age how to worry. I remember believing that I worried about someone because I loved them. However, as an adult, God helped me to see that this was not an act of love. It only weighed me down with anxiety and unrest. God taught me to cast my cares on Him. I’ll never forget the lesson I learned from Him concerning worry. When I was worried about something, God asked me to lift the concern up to Him in prayer and leave it there. I was then to write it down and leave it there for a few days. When I later came back to this note, I was amazed at the number of times the things I was worrying about never came to fruition. I thanked God for this amazing lesson on casting my cares on Him.

MEMORY VERSE

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “fearful concern or interest” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is “to have a distracting care” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

Worry…

Worry is “to cause to feel troubled or uneasy; make anxious; distress” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “mental distress or agitation resulting from concern…for something impending or anticipated” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

In order to live an abundant life, we must learn to cast our cares on the Lord. When we worry and are anxious, we are weighed down by our troubles. However, when we pray to God and lift our worries to Him, we will experience His peace. We must also remember not to take the worry back after we have lifted it up to God in prayer.

Read Philippians 4:6-7. What are we not to be anxious about?

How are we to present our requests to God?

How is the peace of God described?

What will His peace guard?

In today’s world, anxiety is rampant. There is so much turmoil in this world that it can be easy to become anxious and worried. The good news is that we can reach out to God in prayer and petition. When we present our requests to God, we will experience His peace that passes all understanding.

“This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God…The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop” (Luke 8:11, 14-15, NIV).

Read Luke 8:11, 14-15. What is the seed in the parable?

What do those who hear but go on their way choked by?

How is the heart of those whose seed fell on good soil described?

How do they produce a crop?

The parable of the seeds show how we can become overwhelmed by the cares of the world and not yield a crop. We need to stay close to God in reading His Word and prayer. When we draw near to Him, God will draw near to us. We will then yield a crop for His Kingdom.

Read Matthew 6:33-34. What are we to seek first?

What will we receive?

What are we not to worry about?

Why are we to not worry about tomorrow?

“In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears” (Psalm 18:6, NIV). We can find great solace in knowing that God hears our cries to help. When we cast our cares upon Him, we will not only experience His peace but also have an abundant life.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV). When we cast our cares upon the Lord, He will not only sustain us but we will find strength to face whatever comes our way. We will not be shaken when we cast our cares upon the Lord.

Name a time when you felt overwhelmed and worried about the cares of the world.

How did you feel?

How did you cry out to God?

How did you cast your cares upon the Lord?

How did you feel?

How did God’s peace replace your anxiety?

“Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight” (Psalm 119:143, NIV). God’s Word can indeed give us delight. We can meditate upon Scriptures and soon discover the cares of this world to fade away. The Word of God is medicine of peace to our souls.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I give you my worries and cares for this day. Help me to leave them with You as I cast my cares upon You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Stop thinking about your difficulties, whatever they are, and start thinking about God instead. Emmet Fox

Don’t worry about anything. Worrying never solved anything. All it does is distort your mind. Milton Garland

He that fears not the future may enjoy the present. Thomas Fuller

Worry gives a small thing a big shadow. Swedish Proverb

Don’t take tomorrow to bed with you. Norman Vincent Peale

TIMELY PATIENCE CH 1: EFFECTS OF IMPATIENCE

After graduate school, I moved to Tucson, Arizona. I enjoyed the sunny days and warm weather. I looked forward to starting my career as an Occupational Therapist. However, the excitement turned to anxiety and worry as I went eleven months unemployed. I had grown impatient and had attempted to open a door that was shut. I cried out to God for help. I expressed my anxiety to another woman who suggested that I apply for a secretarial position at the University of Arizona. At first, my pride reared its ugly head as I thought I was better than that. However, I followed her advice and was given a job at the university. It turned out to be a timely blessing in my life. The following year, I would have to undergo brain surgery to remove scar tissue which was causing seizures. The people I worked with went above and beyond by donating vacation time and giving me gifts. I thanked God for giving me this job which was a blessing in disguise. Although I was impatient with pursuing my occupational therapy career, this job was in God’s perfect will. Eventually, I went on to a career in occupational therapy. However, I thanked God for allowing me this opportunity to surpass my impatience for His timely blessing in my life.

MEMORY VERSE

“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly” (Proverbs 14:29, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is a “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind usually over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). Anxiety is “to draw in different directions, distract” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

Anger…

Anger is a feeling of “resentful or revengeful displeasure” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “an intense emotional state induced by displeasure” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). It is an “abiding condition of mind, frequently with a view to take revenge” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

When we are impatient, we are discontent with God’s timing. God’s timing is always best. There are things which result from impatience, including anxiety and anger. The Israelites displayed the results which can occur when we act out in impatience.

“They traveled from Mount Hor along the route to the Red Sea, to go around Edom. But the people grew impatient on the way; they spoke against God and against Moses, and said, ‘Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!’” (Numbers 21:4-5, NIV).

Read Numbers 21:4-5. What did the Israelites become on their journey?

Who did they speak against?

What did they complain against?

The Israelites complained against Moses and God. They focused on their lack instead of focusing on their Provider. When we focus on what we do not have, we become impatient for the provision. Instead of trusting God, we murmur and complain. We may speak out against God for not providing in the way we think He should provide. Another example of being discontent and impatient is King Saul. When King Saul acted out in impatience, it had dire consequences. Saul lost his kingship over Israel. God desired a man after His own heart. (See 1 Samuel 13:7-14).

One consequence of impatience is anxiety. When we rehearse our troubles over and over in our mind, anxiety is the result. We think over all the possible results of our waiting and worry and fret instead of trusting God and waiting patiently for Him to act.

Read Philippians 4:6-7. What are we not to do about anything?

What are we to do in every situation?

With what are we to present our requests to God?

What will be the result?

How is this peace described?

What will this peace guard?

Peace will guard your hearts and minds. Instead of getting worked up in anxiety and impatience, we can trust in God. He knows what is best for us. Another consequence of impatience is anger. “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride. Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools” (Ecclesiastes 7:8-9, NIV).

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires” (James 1:19-20, NIV).

Read James 1:19-20. What should we be quick to do?

What two things should we be slow to do?

What does human anger not produce?

God desires to produce righteousness in us. However, anger can get in the way. Impatience leads to both anxiety and anger. We can place our hope in God and His timing instead of our own timing.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

In today’s world of instant gratification, impatience is the norm. However, as Christians, we need to follow Christ’s example and be patient. When we don’t wait patiently, anxiety and anger can be the result. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV).

Name a time when you worried about an issue.

How did you feel?

How did impatience play a role in your anxiety?

How did you bring your requests to God?

How did you patiently wait for His timing?

Anxiety and worry are norms in today’s society. We can’t wait for the rush hour traffic…standing in line at a grocery…even wait for the microwave to finish cooking our meals. However, God has a better way which brings us peace. Another consequence of impatience is anger. We can act out and then regret the consequences. “‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27, NIV).

Name a time when you felt anger in a situation.

How did the words spoken hurt others?

Did you stew in your anger?

When did you bring your anger to God and leave it there?

How did you restore your relationship with others?

How did this bring you peace?

Anxiety and anger are weapons that Satan uses in his arsenal to get our focus off of God. However, God has a better way to bring us His peace that passes understanding…patience. We can then go through our day with the knowledge that God is right there for us and His timing is always best.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for always being there for me. Thank You for making me aware of the dire consequences of impatience in Your Word. Help me to be patient with Your timing and with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Where there is patience and humility, there is neither anger nor vexation. Francis of Assisi

Pray, and let God worry. Martin Luther

Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday. Author unknown

Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength. C.H. Spurgeon

If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will avoid one hundred days of sorrow. Chinese proverb

PERFECT PEACE CH 2: THE GIFT OF PEACE

Anxiety filled me. I was desperate and afraid. I did not know what just happened but it shook me to the core. I had made foolish choices and felt like I was invincible and on top of the world. At that moment, I realized how uncharacteristic my racing thoughts were to me. I cried out to God for help. Just then, the word, peace, spoke to my spirit. At that moment, God’s peace filled me instead of the anxiety. It was His peace that got me through the following days which led me to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. I realized then what had happened to me – I had just gone through my first manic episode. I thanked God for getting me through one of the most difficult and trying times of my life with His out of this world gift – His peace.

MEMORY VERSE

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

“He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him” (John 1:10, NIV). The world does not recognize Jesus because His Spirit is not in them. The world was made through Jesus. However, God gave us free choice. People in the world without Jesus go on to the path of destruction. God loved the world to sacrifice His one and only Son. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, NIV).

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’” (John 8:12, NIV).

Read John 8:12. How did Jesus describe Himself?

What happens to those who follow Jesus?

What will those who follow Jesus have?

Jesus is the light of the world. Since we have Jesus and the Holy Spirit, our lights can shine in the world to draw unbelievers to Christ. When we shine the light of Jesus, people in the world will take notice.

“Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly – mere infants in Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:1, NIV).

Read 1 Corinthians 3:1. What could Paul not address the people as?

How could Paul address the people?

How did Paul describe the Corinthians?

Carnal Christians are Christians who have not grown in their Christian walk. They are worldly Christians. They live as the world lives although they have the Spirit within them. In this passage, Paul desires to make this known so that these carnal Christians would wake up and grow in their Christian walk and be not of the world.

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever” (1 John 2:15-17, NIV).

Read 1 John 2:15-17. What are we not to love?

What is not in those who love the world?

What three things describe the world?

What passes away?

Who lives forever?

“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God” (1 John 5:4, NIV). Jesus came to save us but also to give us His peace. It is a gift freely given by the Prince of Peace. “…And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, NIV).

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

Read John 16:33. Why did Jesus share with the apostles?

What will we have in Christ?

What will we have in this world?

What has Jesus overcome?

What a reassuring promise! We can overcome our trials with His peace. We will have troubles in this life but we can rest assured in His peace that passes understanding by the Prince of Peace. Jesus has overcome the world so we do not have to be in distress about things happening in the world but to rest in His peace.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV). The peace of Christ is such an indescribable gift. It will allow us to overcome our trials in His peace and strength instead of worldly anxiety and distress.

Name a time when you felt overwhelmed by anxiety about a problem in your life.

How did you feel?

What brought you to draw near to God?

What was the result?

Is there a burden lying heavily on you today?

Give the burden to God and allow His peace to fill you.

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you” (2 Thessalonians 3:16, NIV). God is with us at all times through the Holy Spirit. We can rest assured with His presence in our lives. We can have His peace that passes understanding to rest in Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me Your peace that passes understanding. This gives me assurance as I live in this world as Christ has overcome the world. Help me to walk in Your peace today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Author unknown

Great peace is found in little busy-ness. Geoffrey Chaucer

Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

If God be our God, He will give us peace in trouble. When there is a storm without, He will make peace within. Thomas Watson

PERFECT PEACE CH 1: PEACE STEALERS

“I’m just a worry wart.” I would tell this to people to explain my shaking hands. I would see worry as a mark of distinction. I grew up believing that you worried about those you love. Worrying was an act of love. It wasn’t until I grew in my Christian walk that God taught me otherwise. I learned that the anxiety and unrest that followed my worrying did not help the other person. It only made me miserable. God taught me to bring my worries to Him and leave them there. I would lift those I cared for up in prayer to the Lord. Then my worries no longer had a hold on me as I allowed God’s peace that passes all understanding to fill me.

MEMORY VERSE

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is a “painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind…over an impending or anticipated ill” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Worry…

Worry is “to feel distressed in the mind; be anxious, troubled or uneasy” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “mental distress or agitation resulting from concern…for something impending or anticipated” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Strife…

Strife is “the act or state of fighting or quarreling…struggle; conflict” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “an act of contention; fight; struggle” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

HIDDEN GEMS

“In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears” (Psalm 18:6, NIV). In this world, we will have distress. However, we can cry out to the Lord for His help instead of trying to do it on our own. Worry and anxiety creates unrest.

“When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy” (Psalm 94:18-19, NIV).

Read Psalm 94:18-19. What did the psalmist say?

What supported the psalmist?

What was great within him?

What brought him joy?

God’s unfailing love supports us. We can turn our anxieties into joy as we come to God for help. Consolation is “comfort; solace” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). God desires to comfort us as He lifts our anxieties from us when we bring our cares to Him.

“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. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:6-7, 9, NIV).

Read Philippians 4:6-7, 9. What are we not to be anxious about?

How are we to present our requests to God?

How is God’s peace described?

What will God’s peace do?

What are we to put into practice?

What will be the result?

We are instructed in God’s Word not to be anxious about anything. This is because we can bring our worries and concerns to God. This will lift the burdens off of our minds that God never intended for us to carry.

“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice” (Proverbs 13:10, NIV).

Read Proverbs 13:10. What is present where there is strife?

Where is wisdom found?

Worry and strife are peace stealers. Worry produces anxiety in our minds and affects our relationships. We can obtain God’s peace when we give our worries to God. We can give our strife, pride and anger to God which interferes with our relationship with Him. In return, we will have God’s peace that passes understanding.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV). Anxiety and worry are peace stealers in our lives. We can give God our worries because He knows what is best for us and desires to give us His peace that passes understanding.

How do you see worry and anxiety in your life?

What worries are you dealing with this day?

How has this affected your life?

Give God your worries because He cares for you?

What relief do you feel as you give your worries and burdens to God?

Thank God for taking your worries and giving you His peace.

“It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel” (Proverbs 20:3, NIV). Strife and fighting create unrest. We can be at odds with another person. Strife produces unforgiveness instead of forgiveness and peace.

Is there anyone in your life you are at odds with?

How has this strife affected your relationship?

How has strife affected your relationship with God?

Take time today to forgive the person and reach out to them.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Psalm 55:22, NIV). God will sustain us in the hustle and bustle of life. Worries can creep into our minds. The good news is that God will lift those burdens off of us as we give our worries to Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I come to You today to give You my worries and cares. Help me to leave them with You. I now strive to walk in peace as I give my worries and strife to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength. Author unknown

Today is the tomorrow we worried about yesterday. Author unknown

He that fears not the future may enjoy the present. Thomas Fuller

Don’t take tomorrow to bed with you. Norman Vincent Peale

There is no need for two to care, for God to care and the creature too. C.H. Spurgeon

CALM CONTENTMENT CH 5: BLESSED PEACE

With turmoil surrounding me, I was an anxious child. I remember my hands shaking. I was always waiting for the next round of problems, such as my brother’s angry alcoholic tirades. As I grew into my young adult years, anxiety and worry were still a facet of my life. That was until I re-dedicated my life to Christ at the age of twenty-five. Gradually, God gave me a recipe of how to conquer worry. When I would catch myself worrying, I would give my worry and anxiety to the Lord. I would also take note of the worry. A few days later, I would see that many times, the thing I was worried about never came to fruition. Prayer and releasing my worries to God was the greatest gift in bringing me His peace that passes all understanding instead of my worry and anxiety.

MEMORY VERSE

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

WHAT’S IN A WORD?

Anxiety…

Anxiety is “a state of being uneasy, apprehensive, or worried about what may happen; concern about a possible future event” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is a “fearful concern or interest” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Worry…

Worry is “to cause to feel troubled or uneasy; make anxious; distress” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is “to afflict with mental distress or agitation” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary).

Peace…

Peace is “an undisturbed state of mind; absence of mental conflict; serenity” (Webster’s New World College Dictionary). It is a “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” (Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary). Peace is “the sense of rest and contentment” (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

HIDDEN GEMS

Anxiety and worry can easily creep into a believer’s life. It is easy to become overwhelmed by the cares and burdens in this present world. However, God has promised to relieve our burdens when we come to Him in prayer.

Read Matthew 6:25-34. What examples of worry does Jesus bring up? (v. 25)

What does He say about the birds of the air? (v. 26)

How does this relate to our worry? (v. 26)

What cannot add a single hour to our lives? (v. 27)

What does Jesus say about the flowers of the field? (v. 28-29)

How will God clothe us? (v. 30)

What does Jesus say we have little of? (v. 30)

What are we not to focus upon? (v. 31)

What does our Heavenly Father know we need? (v. 32)

What are we to seek first? (v. 33)

What will be given to us as well? (v. 33)

Why are we not to worry? (v. 34)

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV). God promises to provide for our every need. However, we must come to Him in faith, believing He will provide for our needs. When we go to God in faith, He will meet us and give us His peace and provision.

Read Philippians 4:6-7. What are we not to be anxious about?

How are we to bring our requests to God?

With what are we to present our requests to God?

What is promised that transcends all understanding?

What will this promised virtue guard?

Peace – something we all desire. In the hustle and bustle of the world, it is easy for anxiety to creep in. However, God desires to give us His peace when we come to Him in prayer. We can praise God for being there to meet all of our needs as well as giving us His peace that passes all understanding.

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV). In the world that we face, anxiety can easily creep into our lives. We can become overwhelmed with circumstances beyond our control. It is here that God desires to meet us and relieve us of our burdens.

How has anxiety and worry played a role in your life?

How have you dealt with anxiety in the past?

What current worries are you carrying?

Release them to the Lord in prayer.

How do you experience His peace as you lift up your burdens in prayer?

“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14, NIV). We are to seek peace. The good news is that it is not out of our reach. When we go to God, He is right there with His peace.

How do you view God’s peace?

Have you experienced His peace that passes understanding in the past?

How have you seen peace in other believers?

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace – as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NIV). Peace is within our grasp when we go to God. I remember desiring what some other believer had. She had a joyful countenance about her. She did not seem to be bothered by her trials. When I went to God in prayer, He showed me that it was peace I was lacking in my life. I asked God for His peace and He freely gave it to me. We can all trade the anxiety and worry of this world for His peace that passes all understanding. “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1, NIV).

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I lift up my worries to You. Please take them and grant me Your peace instead. Thank You for Your peace that passes all understanding. Help me to hold onto Your peace instead of the cares of the world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

NUGGETS OF WISDOM

He that fears not the future may enjoy the present. Thomas Fuller

Great peace is found in little busy-ness. Geoffrey Chaucer

Christ alone can bring lasting peace – peace with God – peace among men and nations – and peace within our hearts. Billy Graham

Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich

We are not at peace with others because we are not at peace with ourselves, and we are not at peace with ourselves because we are not at peace with God. Thomas Merton