At times, all of us experience anxiety. It can feel incredibly overwhelming, but practical relief is within reach. If you are feeling a severe sense of doom or having a panic attack, help is always available. National support organizations, like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, are available 24 hours a day for individuals in need. Other options, such as walk-in-clinics or peer support groups, can be highly helpful as well.
Anxiety can be a heavy weight, and managing it often requires professional help. King Soloman highlighted this truth in the book of Proverbs: “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” This wisdom shows that humans are deeply impacted by communication. Solomon points out that worry is not a small burden, but rather a heavy load for an individual to carry through life. The care of this world can weigh heavily on the heart, leading to despair or depression. However, a kind word or a word of encouragement can lift a drooping spirit and cheer a person up.
Like Soloman, the Lord warned against the grip of anxiety. He said, “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, what shall we eat or what shall we drink or what shall we wear.” The Lord offered ultimate comfort by adding, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
While a dark, heavy mind can cause despair, an encouraging word acts like a breath of fresh air. The right phrase, spoken by a supportive and compassionate voice, can make the heart glad and break the cycle of stress. The weight of anxiety can be a crushing, physical force that drains your mental and emotional strength, making it hard to move forward.
This timeless truth reminds us that nobody is meant to carry the heavy burdens of life alone. We all have the power to lift others up. By choosing to be a source of encouragement, we can lift the weight of anxiety with just a few kind words.
The apostle Paul also guided his readers away from anxiety and told them to pray about everything with thanksgiving. He promised that anxiety would cease and God’s peace would guard the heart and mind.
Anxiety can feel especially heavy if you are already experiencing hardships like health issues, financial trouble, substance struggles, or broken relationships. But remember: you do not have to carry it by yourself. Be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
Dr. Walter Ghosten
