Stop Striving, Start Trusting
How to Kill Spiritual Anxiety with the Cross
Welcome friend,
I’m Mark, and this space is for the wanderers, the worn out, and the ones still wrestling with God at 2 a.m. I don’t have all the answers, but I know the One who does—and I’m learning to trust Him more.
If this message meets you where you are, stick around. Subscribe, share, or simply pray with me as we walk this narrow road together.
And, if you feel lead to support my ministry, be sure to buy the next coffee! God Bless!
I used to wake up with a pit in my stomach. Not because I missed my alarm or spilled coffee on my only clean shirt—but because I felt like I wasn’t doing enough for God. My prayers felt too short. My Bible reading was scattered. I’d mess up, feel ashamed, then double down with more striving, more “doing,” more guilt.
Spiritual anxiety isn’t talked about enough. But it’s real. It's that inner panic that whispers, “Are you sure you’re saved? Are you doing enough? What if God’s disappointed in you?”
Let’s set the record straight: that voice is not from God.
1. The Root of the Restlessness
We live in a world where everything feels earned. Scholarships, jobs, approval, love—it’s all tied to performance. So when we come to Jesus, we bring that same hustle mentality. We try to win God's affection like it's a paycheck.
But the gospel flips that on its head.
“It is finished,” Jesus said from the cross (John 19:30). Not "You're halfway there," not "Keep trying and maybe you'll make it." Finished. Done. Paid in full.
2. Spiritual Anxiety is a Symptom, Not an Identity
If your heart races every time someone says “judgment day,” you're not alone. But let me ask: Who are you trusting in—Jesus or your performance?
Spiritual anxiety often reveals a subtle belief that the cross wasn’t enough. That maybe, just maybe, your sin was too big, your faith too shaky, your effort too sloppy.
Here’s the truth: Jesus didn’t die to give you a to-do list—He died to give you rest.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
3. You're Not the Savior—He Is
Imagine standing before God with a folder in your hands labeled “Good Works.” You try to smile, but deep down you’re sweating. What if it’s not enough? What if you missed something?
Now imagine Jesus walking up, putting His own record in your place. Flawless. Holy. Pure. God the Father sees His righteousness covering you like a blanket.
That’s the gospel. That’s grace. And that’s why Paul says:
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1
Peace. Not pressure. Not panic. Peace.
4. Stop White-Knuckling Your Faith
The Christian life is not about hanging on for dear life hoping you don’t mess up. It’s about abiding in the One who already made you right with God.
Picture a child walking next to their father across a busy street. The kid’s grip is weak. But the father’s hand is firm. That’s how God holds you.
If your salvation depends on your grip, you’re doomed. But if it rests on His grip—then you can breathe again.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
5. Walk Out of the Prison You Already Have the Key To
Jesus didn’t die to make you a nervous wreck who tiptoes around grace like it might vanish. He died to set you free. If the cross wasn’t enough, nothing ever will be. But thank God—it was enough.
So stop rehearsing your sins. Stop re-checking the lock. The door's open. Walk free.
A Prayer to Let Go
“Jesus, I’ve been carrying a burden You already nailed to the cross. I’ve tried to earn what You freely gave. I surrender. I trust Your finished work, not my flawed efforts. Remind me daily that I’m Yours—fully, freely, forever. Amen.”
Call to Repentance
If you’ve been trying to earn your way into heaven, it’s time to stop striving and start surrendering. Today can be the day everything changes. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 6:2, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Don’t wait for a better moment. Turn from your sin, believe in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, and receive the gift of eternal life. He is calling—respond to Him today.
Call to Action
If this message spoke to your heart, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with someone you love—and make sure to subscribe so you never miss more biblical truth, encouragement, and hope. Let’s walk this journey of faith together.