The dictionary defines “angst” as “a feeling of deep anxiety or dread, typically an unfocused one about the human condition or the state of the world in general.”

It’s common to feel “angst.” Even if it’s not a “deep anxiety or dread,” being worried or concerned is a part of the human experience.

But while it’s “normal,” it’s not necessarily healthy because, depending on what it is that you’re thinking about, it can be a real distraction and can even translate to some real problems that have nothing to do with whatever it is you’re worried about.

Jesus boxes the whole issue of “worry” into a neat, easy-to-understand, container by saying, “Do not worry…”

Initially, that looks kind of pointless and even a little irresponsible.

But He makes a great point.

²⁵ “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷ Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

²⁸ “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. ²⁹ Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ³⁰ If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? ³¹ So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ ³² For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴ Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matt 6:25-34)

“Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”

Well…

No.

“Worry” is a waste of mental and emotional capital. It’s not that you disregard those things that are important and have yet to resolve, leaving you feeling apprehensive. Instead, what you want to do is use those anxious thoughts as “prompts” to funnel all those concerns in a way where they land at the feet of your Heavenly Father.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Phil 4:6)

⁷ Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Pet 5:7)

This is more than just “spiritual therapy.” You’re not running, you’re not ignoring what’s at stake…

You’re simply being intentional about perceiving the situation for what it truly is and not all  that it “might” be.

And regardless of what it “is,” making a point of filtering it through the Reality of your Heavenly Father’s Power and Control, you’re able to remember that there’s a point to all of this, regardless of where your situation lands.

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. (Ps 139:16)

for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (Phil 2:13 [see also Rom 8:28])

You smell that? That’s the aroma of a “plan.” There’s a “purpose” to all this and because your Heavenly Father is worthy of your trust and confidence, you can maintain a calm perspective and not be eaten up with an anxious mindset.

God’s in charge. And when you’re feeling like your grip on the Truth is slipping, then remember the last part of Paul’s letter to the Philippians in chapter 4, verse 7:

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:7)

The “peace of God” is distinct from the peace you feel when the situation makes sense or you’re looking at a guaranteed result. You’re not putting your confidence in a result, rather you’re putting your faith in God and that’s what makes all the difference.

So,  get rid of the “angst” by praying it out of your mind by remembering Who’s in charge rather than allowing yourself to be preoccupied with what may or may not happen. Focus on the One your orders your circumstances rather than focusing on the circumstances themselves.