“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” — Psalm 121:1–2 (NIV)
A Moment of Fear and Anxiety
Not long ago, I experienced something that left me shaken — my purse was stolen.
In a matter of seconds, I lost not just my wallet and phone, but also my sense of safety. The rush of fear and the what-ifs that followed triggered waves of anxiety: What if they come back? How will I replace everything? Why do I feel so vulnerable?
That night, my heart raced and my thoughts spiraled. But as I sat in the quiet, I remembered the words of Psalm 121: “My help comes from the Lord.” Suddenly, that verse became more than ancient poetry — it became an anchor.
Why Anxiety Feels So Overwhelming
Anxiety has a way of convincing us that we’re powerless. Our minds race, our hearts pound, and everything feels uncertain. The Bible acknowledges this human struggle. In fact, the Psalms are full of people crying out to God in fear, worry, and distress.
- “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” — Psalm 94:19 (NIV)
- “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” — Psalm 55:22 (NIV)
God never denies that life is hard. Instead, He meets us in our fear with His promises.
Psalm 121: An Invitation to Look Up
When I remembered Psalm 121 after my purse was stolen, it felt like a gentle nudge: Lift up your eyes.
Anxiety makes us look inward, replaying worst-case scenarios. But this psalm shifts our gaze outward — and upward.
- The hills and mountains in ancient Israel were often where enemies hid. Looking up could trigger fear.
- Yet the psalmist says: look higher still. Beyond the danger, beyond the fear — to the Maker of heaven and earth.
This shift changes everything. Anxiety says: You’re alone. God says: I am your helper.
Other Psalms for Anxiety and Fear
God’s Word is full of reminders for anxious hearts. Here are a few that bring peace when worry overwhelms:
- “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” — Psalm 27:1 (NIV)
- “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” — Psalm 46:1–2 (NIV)
- “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” — Psalm 91:4 (NIV)
Each of these passages acknowledges real threats — but points us back to God’s protection.
Practical Steps to Reduce Anxiety With Scripture
When fear hits suddenly, like it did for me, here are a few ways you can anchor yourself in God’s Word:
- Pause and Breathe
- Inhale slowly, exhale deeply. Whisper a short prayer: “My help comes from the Lord.”
- Pray the Psalm Aloud
- Speaking scripture out loud shifts both your mind and your body. Try Psalm 121, Psalm 23, or Psalm 46.
- Visualize God’s Presence
- Imagine the Shepherd guiding you to quiet waters. Picture His wings covering you in safety.
- Write It Down
- Journaling your fears, then writing a verse beside them, helps you replace lies with truth.
- Share Your Story
- Just as I’m sharing my purse-snatching experience, you can share how God meets you. Your testimony may help someone else find peace.
God’s Promise in Psalm 121
The psalm doesn’t just stop at “My help comes from the Lord.” It goes on to describe how God helps:
- “The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.” — Psalm 121:5–6 (NIV)
- “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” — Psalm 121:7–8 (NIV)
This is the kind of assurance that lifts us out of panic. Anxiety says, “What if?” God answers, “I am watching over you.”
Closing Reflection
That day when my purse was stolen, I could have easily stayed in the grip of anxiety. But by turning to Psalm 121, I found a way to shift my focus. God reminded me: my help doesn’t come from what I own, my phone, or even my own sense of security. My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth — and who cares about me deeply.
If you are struggling with anxiety today, may Psalm 121 and the other Psalms be your lifeline. Lift your eyes. Breathe in God’s presence. Let His promises bring you peace.
Prayer
Lord, when anxiety overwhelms me, remind me to lift up my eyes. Help me to remember that my strength and my safety come from You alone. Thank You for watching over my coming and going, both now and forevermore. Amen.
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