I'm so sorry for your pain and anxiety. It's amazing how you've made it this far with such a long-standing struggle. You've carried this burden for so long, it's amazing you're taking steps to conquer it now. You might find it helpful to check out 'The Anxiety and Worry Workbook' or 'Daring Greatly' by Brené Brown. There's also a great video by Glennon Doyle about embracing imperfection and letting go of control.
Myself? I like Holly Gerth, but mostly I find Carl Jung's videos extremely helpful. He knows exactly how to untangle the mind so it can be set free. However, the Bible has been the greatest help to me and has completely sent me free by giving me the spiritual and mental tools I need to conquer dreaded anxiety. I refuse to let it dominate or control me and there are many verses that teach me how to have victory. The one that has helped me the most, and keeps me completely free when I practice its principles, is:
"Thou shalt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
It is a famous principle and promise from God's own Word, found in Isaiah 26:3, and it means God provides deep, unwavering peace, to whom? Those who
KEEP their
focus and thoughts on God, and trust
on Him, even amidst life's troubles, as their hope is anchored in the right person.
The phrase "idleness is the Devil's playground" (or "idle hands are the devil's workshop") comes from ancient Christian teachings, with its roots in biblical ideas about avoiding sin through work, popularized by 4th-century theologian Jerome. It evolves from the concept that unoccupied people find mischief, or are susceptible, to temptation.
The idea also stems from scripture (like 1 Timothy 5:13, 2 Thessalonians 3:11) warning against idleness, which leads to gossip and sin, but the exact phrase isn't in the Bible.
Isaac Watts (18th Century): Isaac Watts used "Satan finds some mischief still for idle hands to do" in his Divine Songs, further cementing the connection between idleness and the devil's work.
Over centuries, these elements combined into the common phrases we know today, emphasizing that a lack of purposeful activity, creates an opportunity for evil or trouble.
God knows better than all, how to help you, and he always has your best interest at heart. He'll never abandon you but will support you and encourage you.
You are not alone. Many people have experienced and also overcome anxiety. I use the above verse to overcome my anxiety and find victory, but it will not work until you put it into practice each day.
You may not feel it right now, but God says you are strong and capable. It's okay to take it one step at a time. You don't have to do this alone; there are people who care about you, love you, and want to help you. We are all here to encourage and support you. You are important to us. Never forget that. We are cheering you on and believe you will have victory in this. God has given us the tools we need for victory, in just that one verse alone, Isaiah 26:3. He has not left us helpless nor alone. With practice and perseverance, we can all experience the victory, and we also know that
we can do all things through Christ, who strengthens us. That is not an empty promise. It is a concrete promise from God himself. It does work. For that reason, I think I'll also share my strategy with the people here at SW, as I'm sure many are struggling, as we sometimes do. Perhaps my message and experience can help them. I hope so.
Meanwhile, please be patient, kind and gentle with yourself, as you navigate this journey. Know that I am praying for you and I love you as my sister in Christ. Much love and hugs.
