Anxiety is on the rise in the United States, where an estimated 40 million Americans, age 18 and older, suffer from an anxiety disorder. The Centers for Disease Control estimates 4.4 million children (ages 3-17) have diagnosed anxiety, while 1.9 million have diagnosed depression.
“Historians will probably call this present era in the Western World that we are living in, ‘The Age of Anxiety,’” the late Billy Graham once said. “Anxiety is the natural result when our hopes are centered in anything short of God and His will for us.”
The Bible reminds us, “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25).
>>LISTEN: Billy Graham’s message on the cure for anxiety
We were never meant to live this way, so what can we do about it? Consider the following 5 Bible-based answers inspired by Mr. Graham:
The world is a scary place. Am I wrong to be concerned?
“A lot can go wrong in life, and the Bible certainly doesn’t tell us to close our eyes to its dangers.”
Read more from Billy Graham’s Answer.
My anxiety disorder is linked to depression. The doctor says medication would help. Won’t God heal us if we have enough faith?
“God gave doctors and their medical knowledge to us.”
Read more from Billy Graham’s Answer.
How can I keep from falling into pity and despair?
“You can depend on God’s promise: ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).
Read more from Billy Graham’s Answer.
Isn’t it a bit unrealistic to say “don’t worry” about the future?
“The Bible gives us a specific cure for worry—and that is to trust God and turn our worries and anxieties over to Him.”
Read more from Billy Graham’s Answer.
My mother suffered from anxiety and depression. Is she happy in heaven?
“The Bible says that in Heaven, God ‘will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”
Read more from Billy Graham’s Answer.
