How to Stop Worrying: 10 Bible Verses to Help Calm Your Concerns

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In 1988 singer Bobby McFerrin released a song titled “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” It was so popular it won the Song of the Year award at the 1989 Grammy’s. His message was simple: Whatever you are facing, stop worrying about it. Just be happy.

Even Disney got in on the message 5 years later with the inclusion of fan favorite “Hakuna Matata” (Swahili for “no worries”) in their hit animated film “The Lion King.” It’s interesting to note that both these songs are very peppy and upbeat. Just like our worry-free-philosophy life should be, right?

Easier said than done. Sometimes, no matter what we do, worry often seems to be an unwelcome companion. But, the good news is that the Bible, our trustworthy guide, is filled with verses that offer us hope, strength, and guidance in overcoming worry. So let’s take a look at 10 Bible verses that can help us learn how to stop worrying.

Praying Instead of Worrying

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.

New International Version

This verse reminds us to turn to prayer instead of worrying. When we bring our concerns to God, He promises to give us His peace. What we’re basically saying is that we trust God to know what He’s doing.

Psalm 56:3

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

New International Version

This short but powerful verse reminds us to place our trust in God when we are feeling overwhelmed with fear and worry. He is always faithful and will never let us down. By talking to Him about what worries us, we can know that He will take care of those things. It doesn’t always mean that He will take away the cause of our concern, but He will be with us and we can trust Him.

Focus on Today to Stop Worrying About Tomorrow

Matthew 6:34

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

New International Version

Jesus teaches us to focus on today and not worry about the future. By living in the present, we can trust that God will take care of our tomorrows. Jesus goes on to say that no one can add a day to their life by worrying. And if you look at health statistics about what worry and stress do to your body, then you can guess that worrying actually takes away days from your life!

Romans 8:28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

New International Version

What’s right in front of you? What’s God doing right now in your life? Stop worrying about something that you don’t even know is going to happen—those pesky “what ifs”—and trust God to work for your good. We can trust that He has a plan for us and will redeem every hard thing we go through.

Knowing Peace in God’s Presence Helps You Stop Worrying

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

New International Version

In Jesus’ own words, He promises to give us His peace, a peace that is different from what the world offers. We can find comfort in knowing that we have access to this peace through Him. When we let His peace fill us, there is no room for worry.

Psalm 55:22

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

New International Version

The psalmist David reminds us that we can rely on God to carry our burdens for us. He promises to sustain us and keep us steady in times of worry. When we’re not shaken, we are at peace. David spends the majority of this psalm talking about his enemies and all the dangers that surround him. But then he steps back and remembers that God is his strength. He knows God holds him and will never let him go.

Psalm 94:19

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.

New International Version

This verse reminds us that when we are filled with worry, we can find comfort and joy in God’s presence and His love for us. The Common English Bible translates the last part of this verse “your comforting calms me down.”

Isaiah 41:10

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

New International Version

God assures us, through the prophet Isaiah, that we are never alone in our worries. He promises to provide us with strength and help through His presence. Like a child taking their parent’s hand when they’re walking in unfamiliar places, we can grab ahold of God’s hand and know that He is always with us.

Having Courage Helps

Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

New International Version

God commands us to be courageous and not give in to fear or discouragement. With Him by our side, we can overcome any worry that comes our way. Courage is not the absence of fear, it’s the choice to not let fear set up residence in your heart and mind. Meet it at the door, then send it on its way.

Psalm 118:6

The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?

New International Version

In this verse, the psalmist reminds us that with God by our side, we have no reason to fear anything or anyone. He is greater than any challenge or worry we may face. He doesn’t question if the Lord is going to be with him. He makes it a statement of fact: The Lord is with me. Whenever you are worrying about any situation, repeat these words, “The Lord is with me.”

Now listen to a sample of this guided meditation from Abide about not letting worry steal your joy.

With God’s help, we can find peace, strength and courage in the face of any worry that comes our way. Hold on to His promises and trust in His unfailing love for you. Let’s stop worrying and let God’s Word fill us with peace.

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