Looking for a prayer for anxiety? One of the best places to look is in the book of Psalms, in the Bible, which was written by King David, Moses, Solomon, and others. In the Psalms, you will find some of the most comforting outpourings to God to meditate on and to help you get your prayers started. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of praying the Scriptures, a great resource is the slim book, Praying the Bible, by Donald S. Whitney. In the meantime, we invite you to ponder the following Scriptural prayers for anxiety and worry.
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Resting in God’s Peace: Psalm 4:8
“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” —Psalm 4:8 (KJV)
When worry keeps you awake at night, this verse can serve as a prayer for anxiety because it reminds us that God alone is our protector. J. Vernon McGee, in his famous Thru the Bible radio program, once said, “My friend, do you need a sleeping pill at night? Have you ever tried Psalm 4? It is a lot better than any brand of sleeping pill you have used.”
Depending on the Lord: Psalm 16:2
“O my soul, thou hast said unto the Lord, Thou art my Lord: my goodness extendeth not to thee.” —Psalm 16:2 (KJV)
This short prayer for anxiety can be incredibly effective in instilling peace and comfort in your heart. Think of the small child crawling into the father’s lap and saying, “You are my pappa.” We have a heavenly Father who made us in His image, and meditating on His greatness can be a great comfort in times of stress.
Asking for God’s Nearness: Psalm 22:19
“But be not thou far from me, O Lord: O my strength, haste thee to help me.” —Psalm 22:19 (KJV)
This can be an excellent prayer for stress and anxiety, as this verse offers a direct cry for God to reveal His presence and strength. It acknowledges that we need His help urgently and completely.
Finding Courage in God: Psalm 27:1–3
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.” —Psalm 27:1–3 (KJV)
Oliver Cromwell was supposedly once asked why he didn’t fear anyone, and his reply was, “I have learned that if you fear God, you have no one else to fear.” Anxiety can create imagined battles in our minds. These verses provide a declaration of courage, reminding believers that God’s strength makes fear powerless.
Waiting With Trust: Psalm 27:14
“Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” —Psalm 27:14 (KJV)
Patience during anxious times is challenging. This verse calls us to trust God’s timing, assuring us that He will strengthen the hearts of those who wait on Him.
Trusting God’s Goodness: Psalm 31:14, 19–20
“But I trusted in thee, O Lord: I said, Thou art my God.” —Psalm 31:14 (KJV)
“Oh, how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men! Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.” —Psalm 31:19–20 (KJV)
Trust is one of the most powerful tools against anxiety. These verses are an ideal prayer for anxiety because they underscore God’s goodness and His ability to protect us in His presence.
Seeking God’s Guidance: Psalm 139:23
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.” —Psalm 139:23 (KJV)
When worry clouds our minds, this verse serves as a prayer for anxiety, asking God to examine our hearts and thoughts. Asking Him to reveal and calm anxious thoughts can lead to freedom and peace.
The Role of Prayer in Christian Recovery
Northbound Treatment Center’s LINKS Christian mental health treatment considers prayer as not just a ritual, but a source of healing. Bringing anxiety to God through prayer provides a spiritual foundation for recovery. God tells us in His word that if we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. (James 4:8)
Why Prayers For Anxiety Are Powerful
The Psalms are both prayers and songs of worship. They speak to every human emotion, including fear, doubt, joy, and gratitude. For those struggling with anxiety, the Psalms provide:
- Words to spark us when we’re not sure how to start praying.
- Comfort through focusing on God’s character, not our own weakness.
- The knowledge that God gives us grace to endure difficult moments.
- Reassurance of God’s protection.
Applying the Psalms to Daily Life
Praying the Psalms can be a daily habit for Christians with anxiety. Reading them in the morning sets the tone for the day, while meditating on them at night brings peace before rest. Memorizing passages from the Psalms can help keep God’s promises close during anxious moments.
Conclusion: Finding Peace With a Prayer For Anxiety
Anxiety is a real struggle, but believers are never left without hope. The Psalms offer words that calm fears, restore courage, and remind us of God’s power and love. By using these passages as the springboards for our own prayers, Christians can release their burdens and rest in the Lord’s presence.
At Northbound Treatment Center’s LINKS Christian Rehab, we believe spiritual healing is vital for recovery. The Bible provides the comfort and strength needed to face challenges with faith. If anxiety or addiction has weighed you down, know that God’s Word can help you find lasting peace.
Get Help Today
Help and healing are possible through our Christian rehab programs.
If you are ready to take the next step and learn more about how a Christian rehab center can aid in your recovery, feel free to reach out to us at any time.
FAQs About Prayers for Anxiety
What does the Bible say about anxiety?
The Bible acknowledges human fear and worry but consistently commands us not to worry, not to feel anxious, and not to fear; instead, it points believers toward God’s peace. Verses throughout the Psalms, Proverbs, and the New Testament offer useful prayers for anxiety, as they encourage us to trust in God rather than relying on our own understanding and wisdom.
Can praying the Psalms help with panic attacks?
Some people find comfort in praying the Psalms during moments of panic. Repeating verses aloud can slow racing thoughts, shift focus back to God’s promises, and provide a sense of calm in the midst of distress.
That being said, the time to soak yourself in God’s Word is not when you are already in the throes of an attack. Begin now, and keep doing it. (Psalm 1:2-3). As believers behold the Lord’s glory in the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit transforms us into His image. (2 Corinthians 3:18) Every time you approach the Scriptures, pause first to ask the Holy Spirit to show you the Lord’s image in His Word and to transform you more and more into His likeness every day.
How often should I pray when I feel anxious?
In the Bible, we’re told to pray without ceasing. There is no set number of times to say a prayer for anxiety. In Psalm 119, the psalmist writes that He is meditating on God’s word all through the day and even all through the night, whenever he’s not sleeping.
Are there other Bible verses besides Psalms that help with anxiety?
Yes, several New Testament verses offer encouragement against anxiety, including Philippians 4:6–7, Matthew 11:28–30, and 1 Peter 5:7. These passages remind us to cast our cares on God and find rest in Him.