Psalm 94:19 Explained: Why Anxiety is Not a Sin

365 Mental Health Devotional Challenge: Day 12

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 Psalm 94:19
“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”

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Mental Health Insight – We oftentimes view anxiety as not trusting God enough. This is simply not the case. Anxiety is actually an alarm system within our body letting us know something is wrong. Our nervous system is always trying to protect us from harm and guide us into a state of peace. When leaning on God’s comfort we activate our parasympathetic nervous system, sending signals that calms your heart and brain even while the anxiety is present.

Faith Connection – When the psalmist states “when anxiety is great within me” we can see that it is a normal human process to experience anxiety throughout our life. Despite this, God shows us how we can move from a heightened state of anxiety into a peaceful state. So the next time we encounter a moment of anxiety, let’s not shame ourselves. Instead, let’s remind ourselves anxiety is a nervous system setting designed by God to let us know something is wrong. Then let’s lean on God’s consolation to regain joy to replace those anxious moments.

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Reflection Question: If you viewed your anxiety as a natural signal from a brain that is trying to protect you, rather than a mistake you are making, how would that change the way you talk to yourself in moments of high stress?

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Prayer: Dear God, thank You that I don’t have to hide my anxiety from You. I am grateful that You meet me right in the middle of my natural human responses, offering Your comfort to my weary mind. Help me to be as patient with myself as You are with me. Amen.

Further Resources

Many of you have been asking for further resources that could potentially benefit you on your mental health journey. Below I have attached a book you might find beneficial surrounding this topic!

The Anxious Christian: Can God Use Your Anxiety for Good? Rhett Smith 

Description: If you have ever felt that having anxiety means you aren’t “trusting God enough,” this book is a must-read. Written by a licensed therapist and former pastor, The Anxious Christian flips the script by suggesting that anxiety isn’t a sin, t’s a signal. Smith explores how our biological “alarm system” can actually become a catalyst for spiritual growth. Instead of trying to suppress or shame away your anxious feelings, this book teaches you how to lean into God’s “consolations” and use your body’s natural responses to deepen your relationship with Him.

Want to stop waiting for shipping? 🚀 You can actually start reading the many book recommendations on this blog for FREE in the next 60 seconds. Grab a [Free 30-Day Kindle Unlimited Trial here] to unlock this title and thousands of other mental health tools, instantly on your phone or tablet. (Note: Kindle Unlimited selection varies over time; check the product page for current eligibility.)

You have completed Day 12 out of 365 Days of our 2026 Mental Health Devotional Challenge. You are doing such a great job! How exciting it is to start our year off right, dedicating the time to working on our mental resilience. I cannot wait to hear how the challenge is going for you! If you are enjoying the challenge please send it to a loved one, friend, or colleague!

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I hope you all have the best and most blessed day!

Sierra Stratman MSW LMSW U/S PhD Student at Liberty University

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), but I am not your therapist. The information provided in this blog post, including book recommendations and mental health insights, is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute a therapist-client relationship, nor is it intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.