Pastor Danny's Blog

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The Secret to Overcoming Anxiety

anxiety gratitude peace spiritual development Jun 07, 2025
The imags is of a pier leading out onto a peaceful lake at sunset. The text says "The Secret to Overcoming Anxiety"

Anxiety is something we all deal with. Whether it's the pressure of work, financial stress, relationship issues, or just the weight of the world—it's easy to feel overwhelmed. And yet, Jesus said, “Don’t be anxious about anything.” Paul echoed the same in Philippians 4:6: “Don’t worry about anything.”

But how?
That’s the real question, right? We know we’re not supposed to worry—but what does that actually look like?

There’s a simple verse tucked away in Psalm 92:1 that offers a powerful, practical answer:
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to the Most High.”

Why is gratitude so good for us?
Because it shifts our focus. It takes our minds off of everything that’s wrong and re-centers us on everything that’s right.

When you pause to thank God—whether for His provision, His faithfulness, His presence, or just the small things like a warm cup of coffee or a safe home—you’re training your mind to look for the blessings, not the burdens.

And here’s the truth: you can’t be grateful and anxious at the same time.

Gratitude redirects your thoughts. It reframes your perspective. It reminds you that God is still working, still providing, still with you. It’s not magic—it’s mindset. And it’s deeply biblical.

Paul, the same guy who said, “Don’t worry about anything,” went on to say, “In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

Did you catch that?
With thanksgiving.
Gratitude is part of the formula. It’s not just a side note—it’s a spiritual weapon against anxiety.

So here’s a simple challenge I want to extend to you:
Start practicing gratitude.
Tonight, or first thing tomorrow morning, write down three things you’re thankful for. Big or small, doesn’t matter. Just name them.

Then do it again the next day. And the next.

It might be your family. Your health. A job. A friend. A warm meal. A moment of peace. A Bible verse that spoke to your heart. A prayer that was answered.

Watch what happens.
You’ll begin to feel lighter. Less overwhelmed. Less anxious.

Because gratitude takes your eyes off the chaos and puts them back on Christ.

It’s not a cure-all, but it is a powerful start. And if Jesus and Paul both pointed to a worry-free life… we’d be wise to pay attention to how they said to get there.

So if you're struggling with anxiety today, don't just sit in it.
Fight it—with gratitude.

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