Overcoming Anxiety and Worry | The God Fast

Scripture: Isaiah 58, Mark 4:35-41, Philippians 4:6-9

We often think of burdens as things we carry physically—financial struggles, work stress, or family responsibilities. But sometimes, the heaviest burdens are the ones no one else can see. Worry, anxiety, depression, shame, and guilt can weigh us down so much that we feel like we’re sinking.

As part of The God Fast, we are focusing this week on Undoing Heavy Burdens—not just the struggles we face outwardly, but the unseen battles of the mind and heart. This week we will overcoming worry and anxiety through Christ.

The Storm Within | Mark 4:35-41

In Mark 4, the disciples found themselves in a terrifying storm. These were experienced fishermen, yet they were so overwhelmed with fear that they believed they were about to die. Meanwhile, Jesus was asleep. Their panic led them to question: “Jesus, don’t you care that we are perishing?”

How many times have we felt the same way? When life is chaotic, we assume that Jesus doesn’t see us, doesn’t care, or won’t do anything about it. But Jesus got up and calmed the storm with three simple words: “Peace, be still.”

The problem wasn’t just the storm—it was their lack of trust. And often, we are no different. Our worries and fears disorient us and make peace seem impossible. But Jesus didn’t just calm the sea—He offered His disciples the same peace He had in the storm. He offers us the same today.

Overcoming Worry and Anxiety | Philippians 4:6-9

Paul tells us in Philippians:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

The word “careful” means “full of care.” Many of us live this way—full of worry, stress, and fear. But Paul lays out a clear path to peace:

1. Trust God – Surrender your burdens to Him through prayer and don’t pick them back up.

2. Shift Your Focus – Choose to dwell on holy and good things rather than your anxieties.

3. Live It Out – Faith is not just about hearing the Word—it’s about applying it.

   
   

Peace doesn’t come from having no storms in life—it comes from trusting the One who calms them.

Breaking Free from Emotional Burdens

Jesus wants to undo the weight that has been holding you down. But it requires surrender. You can’t carry your burdens and walk in freedom at the same time.

Reflection Questions:

• What unseen burdens have been weighing you down the most?

• Have you been trying to fight worry and fear on your own instead of surrendering them to God?

• What would it look like to truly trust Jesus in your current storm?

• How can you shift your focus from worry to worship this week?

This week, let’s lay our burdens at the feet of Jesus. If you missed the message, go back and watch—it’s time to step into His peace!