Anxious for Nothing

The Gospel for Everyone

We are in the throes of an anxiety epidemic right now. How can we deal with it? Is there any help in sight? Join Jason and Lane as they begin a multi-episode series on dealing with anxiety the way God shows us through Scripture.
Key Verse:
Philippians 4:4-7 (NKJV)

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Questions:

1. Today we began a new series focusing on God's wisdom for overcoming anxiety. Everyone experiences anxiety in their lives. But how would you rate your anxiety level right now? Higher, lower, about the same as always? Does it seem as if anxiety has increased over the last couple of years?
2. Philippians 4:4-7 is the most highlighted Bible passage in Amazon's Kindle app. Read over this wonderful verse and talk about what really stands out to you.
3. One of the root words for anxiety means "to squeeze tightly" or "to choke." Anxiety can sometimes feel this way, especially when it feels as if our circumstances are spinning out of control. But based on Philippians 4:4-7, we can always choose to be joyful and we can choose to be prayerful. Is this good news? To know that even when things seem "out of control," we always have the power to choose how we react to stress?
4. How would you explain the difference between joy and happiness? Why do the biblical writers stress the importance of joy?
5. Jason and Lane said, "Prayer is the most reliable path to peace." Do you agree? Have you experienced this to be true in your life?