4 Steps To Combat Stress Biblically

This post is about what does the bible say about stress.

Written by a previous trauma therapist, a Licensed Master Social Worker, and current PhD Student learning how to bridge the gap between theology and psychology.

Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links. I may earn a small commission on purchases (at no extra cost to you).

What does the Bible say about stress? In today’s article, we will explore what stress does to the brain and learn educational tips to combat stress that aligns with the Christian faith. Let’s get started!

Stress Management For Christians

Psalm 34:19
“The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”

Christian Coping Skill For Stress

Sometimes our brain can be overloaded with life’s troubles. Worrying about your health, overwhelmed with grief, or beyond stressed with your adult responsibilities can easily cause Cognitive Overload. When we try to treat every problem, whether big or small, at the same time our brain registers it as a major life crisis. This can cause us to easily become burnt out and overwhelmed with life. To combat this we will be learning about an educational tool called Scope of Concern Filter. This skill helps the brain categorize stressors so that you can apply your energy where it is actually effective, rather than being paralyzed by the sheer volume of “troubles.”

Step 1: The Worry List Individuals can start by taking a piece of paper and writing down every worry currently on their minds. The goal is just to get these thoughts out of their heads and onto the paper without judging them yet.

Step 2: Sort the Worries Next, draw three circles inside of each other (like a target) to sort the list:

• The Inside Circle (Control): Things a person can act on today (like calling a doctor, eating a healthy meal, or praying).
• The Middle Circle (Influence): Things a person cannot fully control, but can help guide (like a child’s mood, a work task, or talking with a spouse).
• The Outside Circle (Concern): Things a person has zero control over (like the past, what other individuals think, or world news).

Step 3: Hand It Over Look at the Outside Circle. These are the heavy burdens that cause the most stress because individuals cannot fix them on their own. For each item in this outside circle, believers often find peace by praying and picturing themselves handing those worries over to the Lord.

Step 4: Take Action Finally, one can focus their limited energy only on the Inside Circle. By doing just one small thing they can control, they remind themselves that they are safe and capable. Focusing on what can be controlled is a well-known tool that may help calm feelings of anxiety.

Reflection Question: Which “trouble” have you been exhausting yourself trying to control, even though it actually belongs in your Outer Circle of Concern? How does it feel to move that burden into God’s hands today?

---

Prayer: Dear Lord, Your Word acknowledges that I may have many troubles, and today I feel the weight of them all. Help me to be a good steward of the energy You have given me. Give me the wisdom to recognize what is mine to do and the faith to surrender what is Yours to handle. Thank You for being the One who delivers me, even when I don’t have all the answers. Amen.

Christian Mental Health Book Recommendations 

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey – This timeless guide introduces the practical concept of separating the things you can control from the things you cannot. By intentionally shifting your mental energy toward your specific areas of influence, you can significantly lower daily stress and overcome feelings of helplessness. It provides a reliable framework for taking ownership of your emotional well-being during chaotic or overwhelming seasons.

“Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World” by Jennie Allen – This encouraging book offers a biblical and practical roadmap for overcoming modern isolation by building deeply rooted, authentic friendships. It teaches readers how to intentionally cultivate a strong support system so you never have to carry life’s heavy burdens alone. By combining actionable community-building steps with spiritual truths, it beautifully illustrates how God designed us specifically for safe, connected relationships.

Why wait for shipping when you can start reading—or listening—right now for FREE? 🚀

Get instant access to the mental health tools recommended on this blog in under 60 seconds. Whether you prefer flipping pages on your screen or listening on the go, choose the format that works best for you:

📖 Prefer to Read? Grab your [Free 30-Day Kindle Unlimited Trial here] to instantly unlock this title and thousands of others right on your phone or tablet.

🎧 Prefer to Listen? Claim your [Free 30-Day Audible Trial here] to get a FREE audiobook of your choice. Download it instantly and listen anytime, anywhere!

Stop waiting and start your journey today.

Wanting to disconnect from technology and slow down? Check out our Christian Mental Health mail club! Get physical faith based tools directly to your mail box every month while also supporting our blog!

Includes a devotional, Christian psychology article, Joy Journal, book marks, stickers, crossword puzzle, scripture cards, and coping skill cards!

Shipped once a month

Closing Thoughts

I hope today’s blog post was not only educational but also helped you draw closer to God. If you or someone you know struggling to find peace and want guidance, please connect with a therapist today! Check out TherapyforChristians.com to get connected with a faith-based provider in your area!

Don’t forget to subscribe to never miss a post!

Think Like Christ Mental Health

Disclaimer

Educational and Spiritual Support Only: I am not your therapist. The information provided on this blog—including book recommendations, worksheets, biblical insights, coping skills, or any other content on this blog—is for  educational, informational, and spiritual encouragement purposes only. No Professional Relationship Interacting with this content, including leaving comments or sending direct messages, does not create a therapist-client relationship. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Seek Professional Help: Always seek the advice of your physician or a licensed mental health provider regarding any medical or psychological condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. If you are in a crisis, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis hotline you all have the best and most blessed day!