Tuesday 18 August 2009

Anxieties Anonymous

Hi, my name’s Lindsay and I’ve been suffering from anxiety.

I don’t know if there’s a 12 step program to help people with anxiety but I do know that I need help of some sort.
I’ve managed to allow a few small happenings become huge overpowering worries and now I’ve become trapped. Trapped by worries I feel I have no control over. Trapped by a fear of ‘what if’? Trapped by a sense of almost panic that creeps up from nowhere but takes over my every moment.

Worse of all I know that it’s not right. Which just freaks me out a little bit more.
And I feel I should be able to conquer it. My logical mind should be able to rationalise and overcome the illogical and irrational thoughts and feelings. My faith in God and knowledge of his peace should calm my soul and quiet my spirit.

But I can’t. Not in my own strength. I need an intervention of the Holy Spirit in such a real way. Whether He takes 12 steps or not, I need Him to come and rescue my weary, anxious, slightly panicked self and renew a right spirit in me.

I need to meditate on the life giving, peace restoring word of God and allow Him to untie my knots and work on straightening me out! I’m so glad God is patient with us every day.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.
Philippians 4:6-7

I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8

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

When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me.
When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.
Psalm 94:18-20

3 comments:

Bianca said...

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition...

Lindsay, I will be praying for you. Right now. There is power in prayer!

Anonymous said...

I firmly believe that we experience different things for a reason- there are no coincidences. We may not understand WHY we are going through certain experiences but surely they are for a reason.

Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

My sister has told me before~ if God leads you to it~ he'll lead you through it. I hope you can at least find some comfort in knowing this even though it may not always be easy. I have experienced similar moments and they HAVE passed and I also feel like I AM a stronger woman and closer to God as a result of those moments.

I will be praying for you!

~Holly

Lindsay said...

Hi Bianca & Holly!
Thanks for your prayers. I feel like I've hit a bit of a brick wall with this one and so your support, encouragement and prayers are really appreciated.