Fear. Anxiety. Small words—yet sometimes so loud, they drown out everything else.
I’ve walked through seasons when fear was more audible than faith. Whether it has been a loved one’s health crisis, mounting financial pressure, or the sheer weight of the unknown, I have often found myself feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. Add to that the demands of a full-time job, responsibilities in church ministry, being a mom to three children, and leading a local ministry—yes, anxiety has made its way into my life.
Yet, time after time, God reminds me that He has provided His promises, His presence, and His Word to guide and comfort me.
Where do you turn in seasons of uncertainty? The Bible presents us with plenty of verses about fear and anxiety. Let’s look at why Scripture is such a powerful tool in addressing these emotions and then zoom in on some that specifically speak to fear and anxiety.
How Scripture Helps Us Face Fear and Anxiety
Fear and anxiety can feel overwhelming, but Scripture offers timeless wisdom to calm our hearts and steady our minds. Here are three ways Scripture helps us when fear and anxiety threaten to steal our peace.
1. Scripture Anchors Us in Truth
Fear and anxiety often set in during the quiet of the night. The what-if questions about the future fill my thoughts and grip my heart. We live in a world where distinguishing truth from falsehood becomes increasingly challenging. Even turning on the news can evoke feelings of anxiety.
These emotions can serve as tools of the enemy. A simple thought can spiral into a lie—perhaps even a lie we believe about God.
In those moments, we need a firm foundation to discern truth from deception. Scripture serves as that anchor. I know that it’s accurate and reliable, especially when fear and anxiety about the future creep into my life. God’s Word keeps my mind focused on the truth, dismantling any lies I might be tempted to believe.
2. Scripture Offers Hope in Disappointment
I can’t pretend that life isn’t filled with disappointments and sorrow. Sometimes fear and anxiety come from truly heavy things—grief, financial stress, serious illness. These are not imaginary fears; they are real and deeply felt.
I’ll never forget how I felt during the COVID-19 pandemic. The looming threat of job loss, combined with watching loved ones battle illness, sent waves of anxiety crashing over me.
When that happened, Scripture gently lifted my eyes from what was seen to what is eternal. The story of Christ’s resurrection reminded me of the hope we have in Him—of a life beyond this one, where there will be no more sorrow or sickness. John 3:16 assures us that eternal life with Jesus awaits, and that promise steadies my heart like nothing else can.
3. Scripture Brings Clarity When the Path Is Unclear
Fear and anxiety also surface when I’m faced with significant decisions, especially when the right path isn’t immediately clear. When decisions are looming, Scripture has offered me peace and wisdom that surpass my understanding.
There have been many times when God’s Word has gently reminded me of what truly matters—helping me let go of distractions and not stress over the small things. But there are other times when decisions are weighty and potentially life-altering. I’ve learned to test them through the lens of Scripture. I ask myself: Will this decision honor God? Does it align with biblical truth?
While not every situation comes with a clear yes or no, Scripture has anchored my heart and helped me discern what is good and godly. Seeking God’s guidance through His Word doesn’t always remove the unknowns, but it does offer the clarity in knowing I’m walking with Him.
Eight Bible Verses to Turn to When Dealing with Fear and Anxiety
Fear and anxiety can feel overwhelming, often clouding our thoughts and shaking our sense of peace, but God’s Word offers steady truth and deep comfort amid those circumstances.
While this is not an exhaustive list, the following eight Bible verses about fear and anxiety provide a powerful starting point. When your mind begins to spiral or your heart grows heavy, return to these Scriptures. Let them speak peace, renew your hope, and remind you that you are never alone.
1. 2 Timothy 1:7: God’s Spirit Gives Us Power
“… for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
The Holy Spirit living in you is not a spirit of fear. God equips you with courage, love, and sound judgment. When fear presses in, ask the Spirit to help you walk boldly and to discern truth from the lies that try to paralyze you.
2. Psalm 56:3: God’s Presence Strengthens Our Trust
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”
David, the author of this psalm, knew fear firsthand. This verse acknowledges that fear is part of life, but it also offers a remedy: trust in the Lord. I find comfort in knowing that God knew we would struggle here. God doesn’t expect us to pretend we’re okay; He invites us to bring our fear and anxiety into His presence and rest in His faithful care.
3. Psalm 23:6: God’s Goodness Brings Us Peace
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
When fear steals my rest, I often recite Psalm 23 as a way to settle my soul. These final verses remind me that God’s goodness and mercy are with me now, and the promise of dwelling with Him forever gives me peace that fear can’t steal.
4. Deuteronomy 31:6: God’s Presence Will Never Leave Us
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
Moses spoke these encouraging words as he was commissioning Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. Like Moses, we face challenges that stretch us, but we are not alone. God doesn’t promise ease, but He promises His presence. In fear or uncertainty, we can be sure: He will never leave us.
5. Philippians 4:8–9: God’s Truth Leads to Peace
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
Paul gives us a mental roadmap for peace: fix your mind on what is true, pure, and praiseworthy. Then, practice what you’ve learned in Christ. When anxious thoughts arise, focus your mind on the goodness of God and pray for His peace to follow.
6. 1 Peter 5:6–7: God’s Care Invites Us to Surrender
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”
It takes humility to admit we can’t carry life’s burdens on our own. But God’s mighty hand is not only powerful—it is also kind. Surrender your worries to Him, not just because He can handle them, but because He truly cares for you.
7. Hebrews 10:24–25: God’s People Encourage Us
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
God designed us for community. When anxiety tempts us to isolate, lean into godly relationships. Share your struggles. Ask for prayer. Let others speak the truth when your mind feels foggy. Christian fellowship is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline.
8. Romans 15:13: God’s Spirit Fills Us with Hope
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
True and lasting hope comes through the power of the Holy Spirit. When fear drains your joy, lean into the Spirit’s presence. He is your advocate, comforter, and counselor—ready to fill you with peace and joy as you trust in God.
Finding Peace in God’s Presence
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take intentional steps to create space for God’s peace. Consider stepping back from social media, limiting news intake that stirs up fear, and setting aside time each day to pray, journal, and dwell in God’s Word. These small, faithful choices can gently recenter your heart and remind you that you are never alone.
Fear and anxiety are real, but so are God’s presence, His power, and His peace. His Word is not just a temporary comfort—it is a living anchor and a lasting promise for our souls.
When fear whispers lies, speak God’s truth aloud. Meditate on these Bible verses about fear and anxiety. Write them down. Declare them over your heart and mind. Let every anxious thought become a whispered prayer and let the peace of Christ quiet your spirit.
Face the Future with Confidence
Whether you’re walking through a difficult season or you’d like to prepare your heart now for whatever trials you may face in the future, these Esther Press articles are full of powerful prayers and Bible verses to equip you for whatever you face—both now and in the future.
