Using the Bible When You’re Overwhelmed
This month at Becoming the One, we’re talking about God’s Word and how to use it in everyday life.
In Western culture, many believers in Jesus are pretty familiar with God’s Word. We know the basics of what it says and can even quote a lot of it—but we don’t always know how to apply it to our hearts and circumstances.
It’s one thing to know what the Bible says. It’s another to allow it to change the way we think and act.
The laws of the Lord are right,
and those who obey them are happy. (Ps. 19:8 GNT)
Here’s a very practical way to use the Bible in your everyday life.
What happens when you find yourself struggling with strong emotions—fear, anxiety, despair, frustration, shame, self-doubt, or loneliness? Do you hide? Do you ignore them? What is your coping mechanism? Those emotions can be so overwhelming!
The following declarations are based on Scripture and can be applied to strong emotions. Go over this list slowly, and speak it out loud. Keep in mind that these things are true even if they don’t feel true in the moment:
God is the Faithful One (1 Thess. 5:24). You will see His faithfulness in the area where you’re struggling.
He is the Peaceful Ruler, and His peace reigns in your life (Isa. 9:6).
His peace gives you a clear mind, so you can think well (Isa. 26:3; 2 Tim. 1:7).
The “law” about you is the Spirit of LIFE in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:2).
You are not a prisoner of darkness. You belong to life (Rom. 8:2).
You are not separated from the Lord because of evil thoughts and actions (Col. 1:21–22 NLT).
He is your place of safety (Ps. 91:2).
Every benefit of the blood of Jesus is yours (Ps. 103:1–5).
Jesus has undone the works of the enemy in your life (1 John 3:8).
Negative emotions are not stronger than God’s truth.
When you start to feel overwhelmed, speak the truth of Scripture until it begins to feel strong and weighty in your heart. His Word is alive (Heb. 4:12), so you aren’t speaking something that cannot help you. His Word has the power to set you free (John 8:36).
Your heavenly Father is steady (Jas. 1:17)—exactly what is needed when emotions are swirling! He is with you and will never leave you (Deut. 31:8). Those who trust in Him have peace (Isa. 26:3).
Are you afraid? He has the answer you need.
Are you desperate and need wisdom? He can show you what to do.
Are you lonely? Do you want to get married? He has a lot to say about marriage!
Beloved child of God, don’t be afraid to take a risk and venture into God’s Word in a deeper way. His Word is beautiful and full of life.
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