Bible Verses for Times of Anxiety

Anxiety is something many of us experience, whether it is due to personal battles, concerns for our loved ones, or the overwhelming weight of the world around us. But we are not alone in such times. In these moments, God's Word offers peace, encouragement, and a reminder of His faithfulness. 

Here are some verses that have been a source of comfort and strength for our brothers and sisters in the Christian Reformed Church in North America. 

Jeremiah 29:11 

"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."

After experiencing a bout of depression, a respondent found that this verse became deeply meaningful. It has reassures them that God’s plans are good, even when they can't see the full picture.

What does sharing in God's hope for the future mean? How does hope in the future impact your life in the present?

Philippians 4:6-7

"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."

This is a verse one respondent found they relied on daily. "There is so much to consider in my own life, in my children's lives, and in the world and culture around me. I need to continually remind myself of God's sovereignty and His invitation to bring all my cares and concerns to Him," the respondent noted.

What does it look like for you to bring your cares and concerns to God?

1 Peter 5:7

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

An individual who struggles with generalized anxiety has found comfort in this verse. These words remind them that God cares deeply about what burdens our hearts, and that He provides peace.

What does peace feel like in your life? How can you incorporate small acknowledgements of God's peace into your daily routines?

1 Peter 5:10

"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."

This verse gives have one respondent hope and faith in the midst of personal and unseen battles. It reassured them that Jesus is with us and that God, our perfect Father, desires the best for us.

What does hope in Christ feel like? In what circumstances have you experienced God's hope before?

Isaiah 54:10 

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.

This has been one individual's favorite verses since childhood. It has reminded them of God's unwavering love, His faithfulness, and His promise of peace, no matter how unstable life may seem.

Did faith influence your childhood? How did you experience God's peace in different times in your life?

Psalm 23

"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

"As an anxious person, I have worked to memorize this passage so I can recite it whenever I need to feel closer to God," one individual wrote. "It reminds me that He is always guiding, providing, and protecting me." 

What "refreshes your soul?" Are there any ways for you to incorporate those soul-refreshing things into your life?

Finding Peace in God's Word

There are seasons in life when anxiety feels overwhelming, but the Bible reassures us that we are never alone. Jesus understands our struggles, and God’s Word is filled with promises of hope, peace, and restoration. No matter what we face, we can take comfort in knowing that He walks with us every step of the way.

What are some verses that have brought you comfort in times of anxiety?