It is important, however, to distinguish between the anxiety of everyday life and an anxiety disorder. While the former can be managed by being reminded of who God is and what He has promised, a clinical anxiety disorder will not be alleviated. In fact, when I have worked with Christians who suffer with the disorder, they turn the promises on themselves: they are tormented by the fact that their faith – and some doubt that they are truly saved because of the failure – cannot fix this disorder.

So before anyone tosses their medication away, it would be good to determine whether they are medicating common anxiety – which can be paralyzing at times – or a true disorder.

Again, I’m glad the book/chapter is out there for the edification of most of us.

JT

I think the adrenaline rush which makes a police officer spring into action in violent situations differs significantly from anxiety (which often paralyzes and prevents decisive action). In fact, relaxed, focused action is what is probably called for in such situations, not unlike a Christian athlete in a vigorous competition. I find that whereas relaxation increases both focus and energy, anxiety fruitlessly consumes both of them.