Grace for Anxiety

Sunday we’re going to start a short series on anxiety. Nothing is more human than the experience of anxiety. Anxiety expresses our vulnerability and our limitation. Our race didn’t always experience anxiety. Adam and Eve were secure in their elevated status within the created order and the unique protection of God’s divine presence. Their sin and God’s judgment created a vulnerability they had not known before. The creation around them would challenge their very existence and God would feel distant. Suddenly anxiety became a common human experience instead of God’s shalom (peace). Human vulnerability combined with human limitation creates a unique experience: anxiety.

Anxiety isn’t sin, but it certainly isn’t part of the “goodness” God declared over his creation. It’s a normal experience in an abnormal world. As such, it is something we can evaluate, “Why do I feel vulnerable?” In addition, our responses to anxiety can be evaluated. Our responses (actions, words, thoughts) can lead us to the root of our values and beliefs. This is where our efforts can be fruitful. 

As we listen to God speak into our anxiety, consider the grace God has for his anxious children. Jesus says, “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32) God doesn’t chide us for our anxiety and fear, but offers us hope in his goodness.

So join us Sunday as we engage our anxiety.