Jesus’ call to worry not about tomorrow in Matthew 6:34 is equal parts timely and difficult. Anxiety disorder tripled and depressive disorder quadrupled year-over-year because of COVID-19.[1] Suicidal ideation doubled in 2020 from the rates of 2018.[2] Generations past weathered greater storms than these, but we the previously pampered and effete are taking our turn beneath the thunder and these particular storm winds blow primarily in our minds and hearts. The isolation factor has proven devastating for people who already suffered from mental illness and the literally endless parade of self-aggrandizing photos and posts in our social media feeds can actually exacerbate feelings of loneliness and comparison-induced covetousness. This is to speak only of those whose family members did not contract COVID-19. For over a year, the hurting people of the world sat in their homes with seemingly no direct company but that of demons.
 
God gave us tools in First Peter 5:6-11 that equip us to cast anxiety upon Him. With a systematic theology derived from this text, we can better understand the sources of our anxieties with biblical authority and Christ-centered freedom. Secular medical authorities have accomplished great things in assisting those with clincial anxiety. Now, experience what God's perfect Word has to say for those who suffer from anxiety in general.
 
[1] Czeisler MÉ , Lane RI, Petrosky E, et al. Mental Health, Substance Use, and Suicidal Ideation During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, June 24–30, 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69:1049–1057. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6932a1external icon.
[2] Ibid.