success-is-in-you.com

The possible causes of anxiety and fear are many: conflict, health problems, dangerous situations, death, unmet needs, spiritual problems, false beliefs, etc.

According to the Bible, there is nothing wrong with realistically acknowledging and trying to deal with the identifiable problems of life. To ignore danger is foolish and wrong. But it is also wrong, as well as unhealthy, to be immobilized by excessive worry. Such worry must be committed in prayer to God, who can release us from paralyzing fear or anxiety, and free us to deal realistically with the needs and welfare both of others and of ourselves.

Here are some general, common sense suggestions for those weighed down with fear, anxiety or worry:

1. LAWLESSNESS IN YOUR LIFE

Sometimes fear and anxiety are the result of your own failings and guilt. If you have committed a wrong or done anything bad, your fear and anxiety is probably from God and your own conscience trying to get your attention. You need to make some changes, confess to yourself and to God what you’ve done wrong, seek God’s forgiveness, and set it right.

2. SLEEP
Humans generally need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per day. Sleep deprivation can increase anxiety. Get enough rest. If you cannot sleep, you may need to seek God’s help, and perhaps that of a health counselor or a physician.

3. BE MORE REALISTIC
Many people are worried and anxious about events that will never actually happen to them. Relax. Focus on today. Take life one day at a time. Focus your attention on the “now.” Do not become distracted by thoughts of other things.

4. LISTEN
to relaxing, soothing music. There is some great music available, classical and modern, that can help you focus on God and leave your fears and worries behind. It may also help to listen to uplifting, encouraging speakers and teachers.

5. FUN
If at all possible, do something that you enjoy. It is good to get some recreation on a regular basis. Take a break. Get your mind off your fears and worries, and have some fun. Get a life!

6. TALK TO SOMEONE
Don’t hold all the anxiety inside. It can be a big relief to share your fears and worries with someone else a spouse, a friend, relative, pastor or counselor. If fear and anxiety are ongoing problems in your life, schedule a regular time each week to talk with someone. That someone can also be God.

7. TAKE ACTION
If there is something practical and wise that you can do to alleviate the problem or avoid needless danger, take action. Don’t put it off. Procrastination will generally raise your anxiety level. Also, regularly spend some time being concerned with other people’s problems, especially those of family, friends, and others in the community. This can often help other people, and give you a sense of perspective on your own problems.

8. EXERCISE
Medical studies show that exercise can help lower anxiety. If you are healthy enough to exercise, try it. Regular brisk walks, running, swimming or other exercises can be real stress reducers.

9. PROFESSIONAL HELP
There are various organizations which provide help for people with anxiety attacks. You can search for information and assistance on the Web using keywords such as: anxiety, panic attacks, agoraphobia. You should be able to find local help by consulting your pastor or physician.

10. GOD’S METHOD FOR GETTING RID OF FEAR

The Bible states that LOVE drives out fear.

On the human level, the only way you are going to “love” anything is if you receive goodness and kindness from whatever it is you learn to love. Love is something learned through positive experiences.

I will write another interesting article about this when time allows…