“Chemistry is chasing Christianity as the nation’s largest religion. Indeed, millions of Americans, who, in times of personal crisis and emotional and mental anguish, once turned to priests, ministers, and rabbis for keys to the heavenly kingdom, no go to physicians and psychiatrists, who hold the keys to the kingdom of pharmaceutical relief.”- Joseph Califano, High Society (2007)
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.”- 1 Peter 5:6-7
Kyle Idleman continues Chapter 4 of Don’t Give Up as he voices his concern that people readily turn to a chemical substance instead of casting their worries on God. Yet, for some on the anxiety spectrum, medication and professional help are appropriate. Hence, we need to resolve the problem, not seek a quick fix.
Therefore, Pastor Idleman returns to his review of 1 Peter 5:7. Although Peter never talked about pills, priests, or psychiatrists, he does tell us to cast our anxieties on God. But, Kyle asks, how exactly do we go about doing that?
Kyle adds that it helps to reflect on the context of this passage. Rather than quote 1 Peter 5:7 as a stand-alone statement of inspiration, we need to include verse six. Because there should be a comma between the two verses, not a period. So, the author notes, the ‘cast your anxiety’ portion functions as the back end of a complete thought. Kyle explains:
“We humble ourselves by casting our anxieties on him. But it goes the other way too: when we cast our anxieties on him, we humble ourselves. Peter is making a connection that can be elusive: pride and anxiety.”
Finally, in the next blog, Kyle unpacks three ways that pride likely makes us anxious.
Today’s question: Do you find it tempting to seek a quick fix in the kingdom of pharmaceutical relief? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Worship – powerful antidote to anxiety”
