Dealing with Debilitating Anxiety: Jeremiah Johnston
Aug 3, 2023
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Author and scholar Jeremiah Johnston shares his story of living with debilitating anxiety and his journey of finding healing. Topics discussed include finding peace amidst anxiety, the relationship between faith and uncertainty, finding comfort in God's word, and the transformative power of God's word in bringing peace during difficult times.
Trusting God through uncertainty is essential for living in His peace.
Being peacemakers and setting aside intentional time for rest can help alleviate anxiety.
Deep dives
Overcoming Anxiety and Finding Peace
The podcast episode discusses the personal experience of Jeremiah Johnston, who struggled with anxiety despite being in ministry and having a seemingly good life. He shares how he sought help from a Christian psychologist and how it transformed his life. Johnston emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma around anxiety and teaching resilience to our children. He also highlights the power of God's Word in finding peace and tranquility amidst uncertainty. The episode concludes with a discussion on the Sabbath principle and how practicing rest and focusing on God's goodness can help alleviate anxiety.
Living in the Peace of God
Jeremiah Johnston explains that living in the peace of God is not about certainty, but about trusting God through the uncertainty. He shares his personal journey of studying the Bible on the topic of peace and developing a daily discipline of reminding himself of the truth, even when his feelings betray him. Johnston encourages listeners to have a peace plan and to wrap themselves in the truth of God's peace each day.
The Beauty of Shalom
Using examples from Scripture, Jeremiah Johnston highlights the significance of Shalom, which means completeness and wholeness. He emphasizes the importance of being peacemakers and agents of tranquility in our communities. Johnston also discusses the need for Sabbath rest and the importance of setting aside intentional time to focus on God's goodness and trust in His faithfulness.
Breaking the Stigma and Building Resilience
Jeremiah Johnston addresses the increasing prevalence of anxiety, particularly among young people, and stresses the need to break the stigma associated with it. He encourages open dialogue about anxiety and the sharing of personal struggles with trusted individuals. Johnston also emphasizes the importance of teaching resilience, both to our children and to ourselves, to navigate the challenges of anxiety and uncertainty in life.
How do you cope with debilitating anxiety? Author and scholar Jeremiah Johnston has lived with crippling fear—and quickly tired of the answers from bumper-sticker Christianity. He unpacks his story, and realizations that have gradually brought healing. Show Notes and Resources