Anxiety is something that many of us grapple with in our day-to-day lives. Whether it's the stress of work, the uncertainty of the future, or the weight of relationships, it often feels like our worries overwhelm us. Interestingly, the Bible offers insights that are still relevant to our struggles with anxiety today. One passage that speaks to this is Luke 10:1-38, where Jesus sends out seventy-two disciples to spread His message and offers wisdom on peace, worry, and trusting in God's provision. While this passage may not directly mention anxiety in the way we understand it today, it does offer several lessons that can help manage the feelings of unease, doubt, and fear.

In this passage, we see Jesus commissioning seventy-two followers to go ahead of Him into towns and villages to prepare the way for His ministry. He warns them about the challenges they will face but tells them to travel light and trust in the provision of those they meet. The story then transitions to the parable of the Good Samaritan, illustrating love, kindness, and the importance of taking action when others are in need.

For those struggling with anxiety, there are several key lessons to be found in these verses.

1. Trust in God’s Provision (Luke 10:4-5)

One of the most common sources of anxiety is the feeling that we must control everything, from our finances to our relationships. In Luke 10:4, Jesus instructs His disciples to go without extra provisions—"Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals." This highlights a profound lesson: we are called to trust that God will provide what we need when we step out in faith. Anxiety often arises when we feel the need to have everything planned or under control, but Jesus shows that sometimes, letting go of control and trusting in God's provision is the key to peace.

Takeaway for Anxiety: Recognize that you don’t have to control everything. Trust that God will provide for your needs. Start by focusing on what you can do today and trust that God will handle the rest.

2. Peace and Comfort (Luke 10:5-6)

As the disciples go into the towns, Jesus tells them that if they are welcomed, they should offer peace to the house. "If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him" (Luke 10:6). This peace isn’t just a greeting; it’s a deep sense of comfort and security that comes from God. Anxiety often stems from a lack of inner peace, but Jesus encourages His followers to be agents of peace wherever they go.

Takeaway for Anxiety: Practice peace-giving habits. Take time to breathe deeply, meditate on God’s promises, or speak positive affirmations. Surround yourself with peaceful moments to center your mind.

3. Focus on What Matters (Luke 10:38-42)

In the story of Mary and Martha, Martha becomes anxious and upset because she is overwhelmed by the work of serving. Meanwhile, her sister, Mary, sits at Jesus’ feet, focused on listening to Him. Jesus gently rebukes Martha, saying that "Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her" (Luke 10:42). Martha's anxiety arose because she was distracted by the pressure to do everything, but Mary found peace in simply being with Jesus.

Takeaway for Anxiety: Focus on what truly matters. If you’re overwhelmed, take a step back and reflect on your priorities. Spending time in quiet moments with God and learning to be present can help alleviate the pressures of life.

4. Don’t Carry the Burden Alone (Luke 10:1-3)

When Jesus sends out the seventy-two, He doesn’t send them alone. He sends them in pairs (Luke 10:1). This emphasizes the importance of community and sharing the load with others. Anxiety can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be carried alone. God has designed us for relationships, and having others to share our struggles with can make a world of difference.

Takeaway for Anxiety: Reach out to trusted friends or family when you’re feeling anxious. Don’t hesitate to ask for support and share your struggles. Community and connection are powerful tools in battling anxiety.

5. Choose to Love and Serve (Luke 10:30-37)

The parable of the Good Samaritan speaks to the power of love and service. In a world filled with distractions and anxieties, sometimes the best way to combat our worries is by focusing outward. Serving others, loving those who are in need, and showing compassion can bring a sense of purpose that reduces anxiety. When we focus on doing good for others, it often puts our own worries into perspective.

Shift your focus from your anxieties to acts of kindness. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, volunteering, or simply offering a listening ear, loving and serving others can bring joy and peace into your life.

5 Key Things You Can Do to Help with Anxiety: 

1. Practice Trust: Let go of the need to control everything and trust that God will provide for your needs (Luke 10:4).

2. Seek Peace: Make time each day to engage in practices that bring you peace—whether through prayer, meditation, or quiet moments of reflection (Luke 10:5-6).

3. Prioritize What Matters: Choose to focus on what is most important in your life. Like Mary, spend time in God’s presence, and avoid being distracted by unnecessary tasks (Luke 10:38-42).

4. Share Your Burdens: Don’t try to face anxiety alone. Lean on others in times of need. God’s design for community is a gift for your mental well-being (Luke 10:1-3).

5. Serve Others: Combat anxiety by focusing on others. Acts of kindness and service bring a sense of purpose and peace (Luke 10:30-37).

Luke 10:1-38 offers timeless wisdom for those struggling with anxiety. Jesus teaches us to trust, find peace, prioritize our relationship with God, seek community, and serve others. By incorporating these principles into our daily lives, we can find relief from the weight of anxiety and discover a deeper sense of peace.