Leader Guide
Fear and Anxiety seem to be dominating our culture nowadays. It is something every person experiences at some point. Anxiety does not only appear during major life moments; it often shows up in everyday pressures, small decisions, and lingering worries we carry quietly. Scripture mentions anxiety and fear over 300 times, not because God is surprised by it, but because He knows we will face it. God does not shame us for feeling anxious—He invites us to bring it to Him. This week, we’ll explore where we tend to turn when anxiety rises and how prayer, gratitude, and remembering God’s faithfulness help us grow in trust and worry less. We understand and are sensitive that some experience diagnosed anxiety, chemical imbalances, or ongoing mental health challenges. This is not a lack of faith. God cares and can work through prayer, community, wisdom, and medical support. The invitation is not shame, it’s direction. Learning to consistently turn toward Him takes practice and helps us in life's most difficult times.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start:
Leader: This section is meant to start meaningful conversation, engage with God’s truth, and connect it to everyday life. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in the group is a Christ follower. However, participation in a Life Group suggests a willingness to explore faith and spiritual topics. Encourage openness and honesty and pray for the Holy Spirit to lead both the discussion and the people in your group.
**You do not have to cover every verse or prompt. Choose what best fits your group**
1. Share your most irrational or silly fear from when you were young. Do you still avoid anything because of that fear?
2. Read Philippians 4:4–7. What stands out about the order Paul gives: rejoice, pray, present requests, give thanks, and receive peace? Why do you think gratitude comes before the promise of peace? Which part of this process feels most difficult for you right now?
Leader: This passage doesn’t ignore or deny anxiety. It redirects it. Instead of spiraling inward, we’re invited to bring our needs to God and thank Him for what He has already done. Peace comes not from solving the problem immediately, but from trusting Him.
3. Read Psalm 56:3, 62:8. When fear or stress shows up, what usually helps you move from panic toward trust? In simple terms, what does it mean to be honest with God about what’s really going on? Are there things you take to others but hesitate to bring to God? Why?
Leader: Keep this practical and conversational. Trust doesn’t mean pretending we’re not anxious. It means choosing where we turn with it. “Pouring out your heart” can be as simple as telling God exactly what’s stressing you, what you’re worried about, or what you need, without cleaning it up first. God is described as our refuge, a safe place, not a place of performance.
4. Read 1 Peter 5:7. What makes it hard to truly release something to God instead of holding onto it? How do you know when you pray about something but are still carrying it?
Leader: Casting implies intentional release however often times; we pray but continue gripping the worry. Part of growing in trust is identifying what we need and bringing it specifically to God. When we do this, we are more likely to recognize His provision when it comes.
Action Step: This week, identify one thing that feels heavy in your life right now.
1. Name it clearly. What exactly are you anxious about?
2. Ask Specifically. What are you asking God to do or provide?
3. Write it down. Journal it, add it to a phone note, or start a “God jar.”
4. Practice gratitude daily. Thank Him daily for past faithfulness.
Pay attention to how gratitude strengthens trust over time. Discipline yourself to turn to Him, not just in the big moments, but in the small daily stressors.
Optional – Deeper Dive
Read Matthew 26:36-46, Psalm 94:19. How does it comfort you that Jesus also experienced deep sorrow and distress? What does God’s comfort look like in real life?
Leader Closing Thought:
Anxiety will come. But we are not left alone with it. As we choose to trust God, not only in the big crises but in the small daily pressures, His peace begins to guard our hearts and minds.