It is three in the morning, the house is quiet, and your mind will not stop. Bills, health, children, work: every worry takes its turn. If that sounds familiar, you are in good company.

Anxiety is not a lack of faith

David asked, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul?" (Psalm 42:5). Elijah, just after a great victory, sat under a tree and asked to die. God's first response was not a sermon. It was food, water and sleep (1 Kings 19:4-8). In Gethsemane, Jesus Himself "began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy" (Mark 14:33).

Feeling anxious does not mean you have failed God. It means you are human, and He knows exactly what that is like.

Bring it, do not bury it

Paul does not tell us to pretend we are fine. He says, "in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God", and promises that "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

Peter adds the reason we can do it: "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you" (1 Peter 5:7).

Practical steps for a restless night

1. Name each worryWrite them down and pray over the list. On paper, they often look smaller than they felt in the dark.
2. Pray a psalm slowly"I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety" (Psalm 4:8). Breathe slowly as you say it.
3. Put the phone awayNews and scrolling feed the loop. Leave the phone out of reach.
4. Leave tomorrow for tomorrow"Take therefore no thought for the morrow" (Matthew 6:34). Today has enough of its own.

Faith and doctors are not rivals

If anxiety lasts for weeks, affects your sleep, appetite or work, or brings panic attacks, speak to your GP. In England you can also refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies. Luke, who wrote a Gospel, was "the beloved physician" (Colossians 4:14). Getting medical help is wisdom, not unbelief.

If you ever feel you might harm yourself, call 999 or Samaritans free on 116 123. And please talk to one of our pastors. You do not have to face this alone.

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