Christian music: Songs to calm your anxiety

When anxiety grips your heart, music can be your comforting friend.

It allows you to express your emotions, like a safety valve for your soul; helps you stay focused on the present moment, taking your mind off your worries; and distracts you from the things causing you stress.

For Christians, especially, music holds a special place. This helps them connect with God when they can’t find the right words for prayer or when anxiety clouds their thoughts.

With this being said, this article shares with you a selection of Christian music meticulously chosen to calm your anxiety. This way, you can find peace through music and God.

How God can help with your anxiety

God can be your anchor in the storm of anxiety. He understands your fears and worries, and He offers you comfort in times of distress.

In the Bible, in Isaiah 41:10, it says,

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

When anxiety feels overwhelming, you can turn to God in prayer.

In Philippians 4:6-7, it says,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

The passage reminds you that bringing your worries to God in prayer, whether through spoken words or the heartfelt melodies of Christian music, can bring you peace that surpasses all understanding.

Moreover, it is essential to remember that God does not judge or shame you for having anxious thoughts. According to 1 Peter 5:7,

“Cast all your anxieties on him because he cares for you.”

A hymnal. (Photo by Zack Smith from Unsplash)

Christian music to listen to when anxious

In those moments when anxious thoughts leave you speechless and scripture seems unclear, remember that God is always close, ready to calm your worries.

Turning to music can be a comforting way to reach out to Him, as it doe not require words but speaks to your heart’s depths, offering solace amid turmoil.

Here are some recommended Christian music to listen to when you’re feeling anxious.

Run to the Father by Cody Carnes

When anxiety takes over, you can’t help but yearn for a safe haven. This is why when disturbed by our thoughts, we often take refuge in the silence of our room.

As you yearn for a safe haven, this song encourages you to find refuge in God’s loving embrace. It resonates with you when life’s challenges leave you feeling weary and broken.

The lyrics, “I run to the Father, I fall into grace; I’m done with the hiding, no reason to wait,” remind you that God is ever-waiting, arms wide open, ready to comfort and heal your heart.

Out of My Hands by Jeremy Camp

Remember the story of Jonah, a man famously known for being eaten by a large fish as tried to run from God’s plan?

Like him, we often try to control our lives but find peace when we let go and trust in Him.

The song expresses surrender to God’s will and trust that He is in control of whatever is making us feel anxious.

“It’s out of my hands, it was from the start; You are the God of it all.”

You Are With Me by Ryan Ahlwardt

“Even in the valley, You are with me.”

Ryan Ahlwardt’s journey with the song “You Are With Me” carries a profound and personal significance.

Previously known for his membership in the widely acclaimed acapella group “Straight No Chaser,” he felt a calling from God to leave the spotlight of the music industry and return to his hometown to work for a ministry.

His decision, however, was accompanied by immense anxiety, particularly the daunting task of conveying his choice to his nine fellow group members.

Amidst the turmoil and uncertainty, Ryan began to experience a whisper from God saying, “I am with you.”

The song emphasizes the idea that God is a constant companion. This draws parallels to Psalm 23:4, which speaks of God’s presence even in the valley of the shadow of death.

Lord, I Need You by Passion and Chris Tomlin

Anxiety often comes with a sense of isolation, as if you are facing your worries alone.

However, the song’s lyrics, “Lord, I need You, oh, I need You; every hour, I need You,” beautifully encapsulate the essence of human vulnerability and reliance on God’s constant presence.

In the face of anxiety, these words provide profound comfort to the listener. They affirm that it is entirely natural and expected to turn to God in times of need.

A Christian concert. (Photo by Edward Cisneros from Unsplash)

Battle Belongs by Phil Wickham

In times of anxiety, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. However, “Battle Belongs” serves as a resounding call to stand firm in faith, knowing that God is the ultimate source of strength.

The song reinforces the idea that, when we face life’s battles, whether they be internal struggles or external challenges, we don’t have to rely solely on our abilities.

Instead, we can turn to God, who is our mighty fortress and refuge.

Much like the biblical story of David facing the giant Goliath with nothing but faith and God’s presence and power (1 Samuel 17), we too can confront our anxieties with unwavering trust.

Trust in You by Lauren Daigle

The song conveys a message of surrendering to God’s plan, even when faced with uncertainty and challenges.

The singer, Lauren Daigle, wrote the song based on her personal experiences of going through a period of doubt.

According to her, she found solace in the idea that despite not having all the answers, she could trust in God’s wisdom and guidance.

Similar to her, we do not have to have all the answers or be in control of every situation.

Eye of the Storm by Ryan Stevenson

The song can provide comfort to those facing anxiety by reminding them that even in the toughest times, there is a sense of calm and stability within.

In listening to this, take inspiration from the life of Ryan Stevenson. He had a great career, but then many bad things happened.

His mother died, his record label dropped him, and his wife had a miscarriage. He was mad at God, but he held onto his faith and found peace even in the eye of the storm.

Bigger Than This by Jo Dee Messina

“Bigger Than This” is a song about resilience and inner strength.

It conveys the idea that individuals are capable of overcoming obstacles and adversities, no matter how overwhelming they may seem.

Jo Dee Messina wrote this song as a response to her battles with cancer. She wanted to inspire others facing difficult circumstances to believe in their ability to rise above their challenges.

Sparrows by Jason Grey

The song emphasizes God’s intimate care, highlighting His awareness of even the smallest concerns.

Its lyrics, “You’re not far from where You’re here with me; You know the number of hairs on my head,” reflect God’s loving attentiveness, paralleling the biblical assurance of God’s care for sparrows (Matthew 10:29-31).

No Longer Slaves by Bethel Music

“I am a child of God,”

No Longer Slaves celebrates freedom from fear and bondage through God’s love and adoption as His children.

It reflects themes of liberation akin to the Israelites’ freedom from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12).

The song encapsulates the idea that in Christ, believers are no longer enslaved to fear but are set free to live in God’s love and grace.

People worshipping. (Photo by David Diaz from Unsplash)

Finding God through music

When anxiety weighs you down, you can find solace in turning to God through the soothing embrace of Christian music.

As you listen to these songs, you’ll discover relatable stories and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with your struggles.

Moreover, this allows you to reflect on your worries and find reassurance in God’s presence.

By immersing yourself in these songs, you can find a path toward peace and faith amidst the chaos of life.