We live in a crazy world.

If you watch the news, you’re bombarded with disturbing images and stories. Most news programs don’t lead with stories about the positive things in life. Human nature defaults to focusing on what’s wrong in life. As a result, our world is filled with people who are afraid.

Fear and anxiety are serious business. Left unchecked, they can lead to substance abuse, depression, and even suicide.  So… what can we do about it? How do we get a grip on fear when we live in a crazy world?  Let me suggest 3 behaviors:

Change our diet

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things…. And the God of peace will be with you.”— Philippians 4:8-9. When it comes to fear, we are what we eat. What we allow in through our eyes and ears has a dramatic impact on our level of fear. Intentional focus on what is good in life helps us get a grip on fear.

Change our speech

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”— Philippians 4:6-7. Talking to God every day, and all throughout the day, decreases fear. Paul told us when we pray regularly, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds.

Changing our speech has to do with prayer… but it also has to do with people. Fear thrives in isolation. It’s reduced in community. “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.”— Proverbs 12:25. It’s easier to get a grip on fear when we spend time with trusted friends. Praying with trusted friends is even better.

Change our work

I’m not talking about changing jobs. Rather, about changing how we work. This third behavior is for all of the Type-A, driven workaholics who are reading this. Workaholism is largely fear-based. Fear of losing our job. Fear of not having enough. Fear of what other people think about our work ethic.

God’s word gives us a great perspective on a healthy work/rest cadence. “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”— Matt 11:28-30. After a hard day of work, we get tired. Tiredness is often God’s stop sign for us to slow down and rest. Those who blow by God-given stop signs tend to struggle with fear and anxiety. Those who pay attention to them and pause to rest tend to struggle less with fear and anxiety. Go figure.

In our fast-paced culture, rest is often viewed as laziness. And yes… some people are lazy. I’m writing to those of you who are running a hundred miles an hour with your hair on fire. You need to change how you work, or eventually fear will get the upper hand in your life. If you’re struggling with fear and anxiety take a look at your calendar. Could something as simple as over-scheduling be fueling fear?

If we want to get a grip on fear… we need to change our diet… our speech… and our work. If you make those changes, and fear continues to pester you, reach out for help. Get into a small group at your church. Talk with your pastor. Enlist the help of a qualified counselor. If you need help, go get it now.

Determine to get a grip on fear… or it will definitely get a grip on you.