Devotional: When Anxiety Overwhelms You

walking alone in autumn and reflecting about anxiety

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

Anxiety often shows up as racing thoughts, sleepless nights, or a feeling of pressure you can’t explain. Thankfully, the Bible doesn’t shy away from the reality of fear—it meets it head-on with compassion and clarity.

In 1 Peter 5:7, we’re invited to cast our anxiety onto God, not because He expects us to get it right, but because He genuinely cares. The Greek word used here for “cast” implies forcefully throwing something off—it’s not a quiet handoff; it’s a full release.

"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)

None of these verses promise that we’ll never feel anxious. Instead, they offers a path through anxiety: prayer, honesty, and gratitude. Anxiety isn't a sign of spiritual failure—it's an opportunity to draw near to the God who holds all things together.

Reflective Questions:

  • What situations right now are fueling my anxiety?

  • Have I been trying to manage my anxiety in my own strength? In what ways am I often independent or self-sufficient?

  • How would it feel to honestly present my fears to God in prayer—without trying to fix them first?

  • What might change if I believed God truly cares about what weighs me down?

  • Where have I seen God’s faithfulness in past seasons of fear?


cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you scripture with orange autumn foliage

Anxiety affects more than just your thoughts—it can weigh on your spirit, your relationships, and even your sense of purpose. Scripture reminds us that we don’t have to carry that weight alone. Surrendering anxiety isn’t just a spiritual act—it can also mean taking courageous steps to seek support.

Christ-centered therapy offers a space where faith and mental health can work together—where your struggles are taken seriously, and your spiritual life is honored in the healing process. If anxiety is interfering with your ability to live fully, reaching out for help can be a faithful and restorative next step.

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I’ve worked with many Buddhists, atheists, Jews, wiccan and a few others over the years; we’ve done great work together.

I believe that EVERYONE has spiritual beliefs, even if that belief is in nothing. It informs who we are and how we make decisions. If you choose to work with me, you hire me as a counselor first and not a spiritual leader. My goal, if this area is important to you to address in our work, is to gain clarity, understanding and direction on how spirituality influences the way you make meaning of your life.
— Dave
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Cultivating Self-Awareness as Fall Approaches