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How to Overcome Worry: Experiencing the Peace of God in Every Situation
Scripture’s cure for the worry epidemic
Do you struggle with worry or anxious thoughts on a regular basis? Does your mind get fixated on the same concern over and over? Do you know you should stop worrying but repeatedly fail to do so?
How to Overcome Worry presents a biblical and practical strategy for this exact problem. Dr. Winfred Neely, who has experienced his fair share of anxiety-inducing circumstances, walks you through Philippians 4:6–7 to help
Understand the difference between concern and worryUse prayer as a means of grace to overcome worryCultivate gratitude and thanksgiving as an antidote to worryNavigate changing seasons and circumstances without falling into worry Employ practical strategies for experiencing the peace of GodWorry is one of the top issues in our world today, even among Christians, and this concise and biblical approach will offer real solutions. In His Word, God tells us to stop worrying, pray about everything, and expect His peace. This is a true promise of Scripture, and this book will help you to lay hold of it.
Do you struggle with worry or anxious thoughts on a regular basis? Does your mind get fixated on the same concern over and over? Do you know you should stop worrying but repeatedly fail to do so?
How to Overcome Worry presents a biblical and practical strategy for this exact problem. Dr. Winfred Neely, who has experienced his fair share of anxiety-inducing circumstances, walks you through Philippians 4:6–7 to help
Understand the difference between concern and worryUse prayer as a means of grace to overcome worryCultivate gratitude and thanksgiving as an antidote to worryNavigate changing seasons and circumstances without falling into worry Employ practical strategies for experiencing the peace of GodWorry is one of the top issues in our world today, even among Christians, and this concise and biblical approach will offer real solutions. In His Word, God tells us to stop worrying, pray about everything, and expect His peace. This is a true promise of Scripture, and this book will help you to lay hold of it.
113 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2017
75 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Winfred Neely
3 books7 followersWINFRED NEELY (B.A., D.Min. Trinity International University; M.A. Wheaton) is currently working towards an advanced research degree in Old Testament at the University of Bristol, England. He is an ordained minister of the Gospel and a full time professor of hermeneutics, homiletics, and pastoral studies at Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. Prior to joining the faculty at Moody, Winfred served churches in the City of Chicago and is currently interim pastor of the Judson Baptist Church in Oak Park, IL. He brings to his ministry a global perspective, having served as a missionary/pastor in Senegal, West Africa for nine years. He is also involved in a global equipping ministry, speaking and conducting workshops and training events at churches and conferences in the US and abroad. He and his wife Stephne have been married for forty years and have four adult children and nine grandchildren. He takes acting classes from time to time and is an ardent fan of science fiction films such as Star Wars and Star Trek.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 21, 2020
This was a great little book that has exhorted me in the midst of my current worries. I definitely recommend and will most likely read again.
May 22, 2017
How do we give up worrying, we give into prayer and the meditation of God's word.
The book is short and reminds its readers what worry does and what prayer and bible reading do to help lessen worry. Worry becomes our way of caring about something we have no control about but many times we become paralyzed with fear and not knowing what to do. Praying and scripture brings it all to perspective of what we cannot control and what we can do.
I found this book to be refreshing and mindful of who God is which I found appealing.
A Special Thank You to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
The book is short and reminds its readers what worry does and what prayer and bible reading do to help lessen worry. Worry becomes our way of caring about something we have no control about but many times we become paralyzed with fear and not knowing what to do. Praying and scripture brings it all to perspective of what we cannot control and what we can do.
I found this book to be refreshing and mindful of who God is which I found appealing.
A Special Thank You to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
June 13, 2017
This is a slim paperback book which will invite even the most timid of readers to peruse its contents. I personally found it the perfect size to slip into my purse for reading on the go.
The chapters are clear, well-organized and purposeful. Men and women alike will benefit from this book by Winfred Neely. At first I did not expect much from such a short book. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth and quality within. This may be a short book, but it packs an important message.
Dr. Winfred Neely writes with understanding and wisdom. This is a book which will definitely help the worried Christian learn to place his trust in Jesus' plan. It will also unravel confusion as to where worry begins and why we worry. The author writes each chapter in a kind way, not condemning but desiring to help the reader.
I was very pleased with this book and was struck by the Biblical wisdom pertaining to trusting God instead of worrying. Sometimes you know something but don't really ponder it until reading a book about it....this is such a book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
The chapters are clear, well-organized and purposeful. Men and women alike will benefit from this book by Winfred Neely. At first I did not expect much from such a short book. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth and quality within. This may be a short book, but it packs an important message.
Dr. Winfred Neely writes with understanding and wisdom. This is a book which will definitely help the worried Christian learn to place his trust in Jesus' plan. It will also unravel confusion as to where worry begins and why we worry. The author writes each chapter in a kind way, not condemning but desiring to help the reader.
I was very pleased with this book and was struck by the Biblical wisdom pertaining to trusting God instead of worrying. Sometimes you know something but don't really ponder it until reading a book about it....this is such a book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 5, 2017
I was kindly sent this advanced copy in return for my independent and honest review. As I Work in the wellbeing field, I was interested in what this book had to offer to use with some of my clients.It made a refreshing change coming from a section from the scriptures which offered' food for thought'. It was easy to follow, well written and informative. The exercises were very useful and I enjoyed working with them. We all have too much worry and stress in today's modern times, so I would suggest you give this a try. You may find this lovely book useful as I certainly did. Especially therapists and those who focus on their own wellbeing. Be mindful it is coming from a strong Christian point of view, if that isn't your thing then this might not be for you. I personally didn't find it too heavily religious.
March 23, 2017
Excellent resource. I come from a long line of worry warts and this book has so many wonderful nuggets here to help a worrier overcome this destructible force. Worry is not of God and is, in fact, sin. Dr. Neely is spot on with the advice here, all scriptural. I plan on referring to this many times.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and my opinions are my own.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and my opinions are my own.
March 21, 2017
I found How To Overcome Worry easy-to-read and filled with practical advice on how to conquer worry.
In his book, the author reminds us of our number one tool against worry; PRAYER!
A large section is dedicated to that subject and I have found that helpful.
Stress,worries and anxiety is all around us but Dr Winfred Neely walks us through Philippians 4:6-7 to help us navigate through hard seasons, cultivate gratitude and apply strategies to experience the peace of God.
I would recommend this book to everyone!
In his book, the author reminds us of our number one tool against worry; PRAYER!
A large section is dedicated to that subject and I have found that helpful.
Stress,worries and anxiety is all around us but Dr Winfred Neely walks us through Philippians 4:6-7 to help us navigate through hard seasons, cultivate gratitude and apply strategies to experience the peace of God.
I would recommend this book to everyone!
January 9, 2018
[Note: This book was provided free of charge by Moody Publishers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
In many ways, this book requires a great deal of proper framing of one's expectations. At around 100 pages even when one includes its appendices, and those pages are very small ones as this book could almost fit inside of one of my pockets, this is not a book that offers a thorough treatment of worry and anxiety. The author treats these as synonymous terms, and he also comments that he does not wish to treat clinical anxiety that is the result of trauma [1], but rather the sort of worry that people have as a result of a lack of faith. And that is a thoughtful place for this book to rest, in that it encourages believers to develop a faith in God that gives one peace while not attacking those whose anxiety is the result not of a lack of faith but as a result of traumatic experiences in a fallen world full of broken people. Even to such people who read this book carefully, the author's perspective allows him to avoid blaming while also encouraging others to build their faith.
The author deals with the subject of worry in five chapters. The first chapter examines the troubled waters of worry, and includes what it is that people worry about and how worry is often related to the dynamic between our concern about people and their lack of concern for us. After that the author discusses the bold biblical imperative not to worry, and then spends a chapter discussing the antidote to worry in prayer and cultivating faith and trust in God. The author then spends some time talking about the precious promise for hard-pressed people that He will give us peace, and not expect us to create that peace for ourselves. The fifth and final chapter of the book deals with how we walk in freedom from worry, again, with a focus on prayer and faith and trust in God. After this main section of the book there are three appendices, the first showing a pattern for prayer, the second a list of scriptures to memorize and call to mind to aid in the battle against worry, and the third one a set of questions for individual reflection and group study.
How is one to view this book? Is it a helpful one? I think it can be, although its helpfulness is limited to those who have a belief in the scriptures as a guide to one's life as well as the model of behavior that we seek to attain and who are willing to trust God to work within us the sort of patience and faith and confidence that is necessary to live without worry and in His perfect peace. The author is wise to note that this cannot be done through our own efforts, and is also wise and compassionate to note that some people struggle with anxiety at a deeper level than others because of the experience of deep suffering and evil. It is unclear why the author does not wish to talk about this at a deeper level, but the fact that he acknowledges it is a noteworthy accomplishment and a way that the book serves as an encouraging guide to overcome worry rather than a bludgeon against those whose anxiety springs from trauma rather than from an absence of faith, given that not everyone who deals with the subject is thoughtful in distinguishing between these two things.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
In many ways, this book requires a great deal of proper framing of one's expectations. At around 100 pages even when one includes its appendices, and those pages are very small ones as this book could almost fit inside of one of my pockets, this is not a book that offers a thorough treatment of worry and anxiety. The author treats these as synonymous terms, and he also comments that he does not wish to treat clinical anxiety that is the result of trauma [1], but rather the sort of worry that people have as a result of a lack of faith. And that is a thoughtful place for this book to rest, in that it encourages believers to develop a faith in God that gives one peace while not attacking those whose anxiety is the result not of a lack of faith but as a result of traumatic experiences in a fallen world full of broken people. Even to such people who read this book carefully, the author's perspective allows him to avoid blaming while also encouraging others to build their faith.
The author deals with the subject of worry in five chapters. The first chapter examines the troubled waters of worry, and includes what it is that people worry about and how worry is often related to the dynamic between our concern about people and their lack of concern for us. After that the author discusses the bold biblical imperative not to worry, and then spends a chapter discussing the antidote to worry in prayer and cultivating faith and trust in God. The author then spends some time talking about the precious promise for hard-pressed people that He will give us peace, and not expect us to create that peace for ourselves. The fifth and final chapter of the book deals with how we walk in freedom from worry, again, with a focus on prayer and faith and trust in God. After this main section of the book there are three appendices, the first showing a pattern for prayer, the second a list of scriptures to memorize and call to mind to aid in the battle against worry, and the third one a set of questions for individual reflection and group study.
How is one to view this book? Is it a helpful one? I think it can be, although its helpfulness is limited to those who have a belief in the scriptures as a guide to one's life as well as the model of behavior that we seek to attain and who are willing to trust God to work within us the sort of patience and faith and confidence that is necessary to live without worry and in His perfect peace. The author is wise to note that this cannot be done through our own efforts, and is also wise and compassionate to note that some people struggle with anxiety at a deeper level than others because of the experience of deep suffering and evil. It is unclear why the author does not wish to talk about this at a deeper level, but the fact that he acknowledges it is a noteworthy accomplishment and a way that the book serves as an encouraging guide to overcome worry rather than a bludgeon against those whose anxiety springs from trauma rather than from an absence of faith, given that not everyone who deals with the subject is thoughtful in distinguishing between these two things.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
May 12, 2017
We certainly live in a time when many worry and have great anxiety, including many Christians. Neely considers worry a serious issue and has written this little book to help us overcome it.
Neely reminds us early in the book, “In the New Testament, worry is the sinful response of the human heart and mind to real difficulties and problems in life.” (29) Worry is an expression of unbelief, he says, and “...habitual worry is a trait of someone who is not in an intimate relationship with God (Matt. 6:31-32).” (30)
That really got my attention. Worry is a serious issue! Neely takes “be anxious for nothing” very seriously. But he also gives us great instruction on triumphing over worry. His suggestions are not easy actions. We must trust God, expecting His peace in the midst of problems. He reminds us of the enabling power God provides, of the necessity of taking everything to God in prayer. We must be making the choices to exercise faith and trust in God, requiring living in the power of the Spirit.
Neely has included useful Appendixes. The first is a good one on prayer while the second gives a number of Scriptures for suggested meditation. The third includes questions for individual reflection or group discussion.
This is a short but powerful book. Neely doesn't hold back in reminding us of the seriousness of the sin of worry. I am impressed with his instruction. He uses stories from his own life as illustrations.
I recommend this book to those who are willing to face their worry and begin the serious task of conquering it. You will find a great deal of help in this little book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Icon Media. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Neely reminds us early in the book, “In the New Testament, worry is the sinful response of the human heart and mind to real difficulties and problems in life.” (29) Worry is an expression of unbelief, he says, and “...habitual worry is a trait of someone who is not in an intimate relationship with God (Matt. 6:31-32).” (30)
That really got my attention. Worry is a serious issue! Neely takes “be anxious for nothing” very seriously. But he also gives us great instruction on triumphing over worry. His suggestions are not easy actions. We must trust God, expecting His peace in the midst of problems. He reminds us of the enabling power God provides, of the necessity of taking everything to God in prayer. We must be making the choices to exercise faith and trust in God, requiring living in the power of the Spirit.
Neely has included useful Appendixes. The first is a good one on prayer while the second gives a number of Scriptures for suggested meditation. The third includes questions for individual reflection or group discussion.
This is a short but powerful book. Neely doesn't hold back in reminding us of the seriousness of the sin of worry. I am impressed with his instruction. He uses stories from his own life as illustrations.
I recommend this book to those who are willing to face their worry and begin the serious task of conquering it. You will find a great deal of help in this little book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Icon Media. My comments are an independent and honest review.
February 18, 2021
I have a tremendous amount of respect for this man after the first time I heard him preach in Chicago. There are very few individuals who when they speak you know they mean what they say and are not professional fakers. I’ve decided to pick up this little book and read it while applying some strategies I’ve been learning to prepare to teaching English in the public schools. I have to say they have been extremely helpful. Overall message is, Be anxious for nothing, turn to God in prayer, and let the peace of God be our strength. (Phil 4:6-7)
These three aspects provide more in-depth discussion as you read the book. The big takeaway was a few things:
1.) Godly anxiety should be healthy concern and care rather than unhealthy fear.
2.) We must rely and trust in God’s sovereignty and resources to overcome our worry.
3.) The peace of God is a descriptive statement about God Himself.
4.) God’s peace does not rid our circumstances but helps change our character.
Followed by three quotes that stuck to me:
“ Ask, seek, knock... are present imperatives and therefore covey the idea of continuous action: keep on asking, keep on seeking, and keep on knocking.”
“Mediation of Scripture is critical because whatever shapes our thinking also shapes our lives and character.”
“ The peace of God is the awesome well-being, the glorious serenity, the inexpressible wholeness, and inner tranquility that characterize the infinite being of God Himself.”
These three aspects provide more in-depth discussion as you read the book. The big takeaway was a few things:
1.) Godly anxiety should be healthy concern and care rather than unhealthy fear.
2.) We must rely and trust in God’s sovereignty and resources to overcome our worry.
3.) The peace of God is a descriptive statement about God Himself.
4.) God’s peace does not rid our circumstances but helps change our character.
Followed by three quotes that stuck to me:
“ Ask, seek, knock... are present imperatives and therefore covey the idea of continuous action: keep on asking, keep on seeking, and keep on knocking.”
“Mediation of Scripture is critical because whatever shapes our thinking also shapes our lives and character.”
“ The peace of God is the awesome well-being, the glorious serenity, the inexpressible wholeness, and inner tranquility that characterize the infinite being of God Himself.”
March 17, 2017
How To Overcome Worry: Experiencing The Peace Of God In Every Situation helps us to overcome worry and anxiety in our lives by providing biblical answers to the following questions:
* How do we overcome anxiety in a worry-filled world?
* How do we obtain victory over situations that are charged with anxiety?
* When a raging sea of anxiety rises up within our souls, how do we keep ourselves from drowning?
Dr. Neely, a Moody Bible Institute professor, finds the answers to these questions in Philippians 4:6-7:
Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Through his exegesis and insights, the author examines the context in which the apostle Paul penned these words and the meaning of key Greek words in the original text. He also provides practical suggestions for how we can experience freedom from anxiety and worry by applying the text to our own circumstances.
The book also includes three extremely helpful appendices at the end of the book that provide readers with a pattern for prayer, additional scriptures to aid in your battle against worry, and questions for individual reflection or group discussion.
How To Overcome Worry is easy-to-read yet filled with practical biblical advice that is essential to our emotional and spiritual well-being.
This review is an excerpt from the original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, based on my assessment of this book.
* How do we overcome anxiety in a worry-filled world?
* How do we obtain victory over situations that are charged with anxiety?
* When a raging sea of anxiety rises up within our souls, how do we keep ourselves from drowning?
Dr. Neely, a Moody Bible Institute professor, finds the answers to these questions in Philippians 4:6-7:
Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Through his exegesis and insights, the author examines the context in which the apostle Paul penned these words and the meaning of key Greek words in the original text. He also provides practical suggestions for how we can experience freedom from anxiety and worry by applying the text to our own circumstances.
The book also includes three extremely helpful appendices at the end of the book that provide readers with a pattern for prayer, additional scriptures to aid in your battle against worry, and questions for individual reflection or group discussion.
How To Overcome Worry is easy-to-read yet filled with practical biblical advice that is essential to our emotional and spiritual well-being.
This review is an excerpt from the original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, based on my assessment of this book.
July 26, 2017
A Great simple book to help with worry!
Dr. Neely has written an excellent book that relies on a biblical foundation and methodology for overcoming worry. Perhaps the best part of the book is that Dr. Neely is willing to acknowledge that which many of us are not - Anxiety is a Choice! Never accusatory, Dr. Neely understands that we live in a world that is worry-driven. We live with menacing threats like terrorism, economic uncertainty, racial unrest, a breakdown of trust between law enforcement and the citizenry, gun violence, mass shootings, and more. However, Neely explains that we need to remember that we are to be in an intimate relationship with God and that when we are, habitual worry will vanish.
Neely provides a sure-fire way to maintain this intimacy. Do you know what it is? Prayer, of course! Neely defines and explains some components of prayer: Supplication, Thanksgiving, and Requests. He also gets very practical and provides his thoughts on biblical meditation, how to increase your prayer time, and Scripture to help along the way. This short book is equal parts powerful and practical. I highly recommend How to Overcome Worry by Dr. Winfred Neely.
Dr. Neely has written an excellent book that relies on a biblical foundation and methodology for overcoming worry. Perhaps the best part of the book is that Dr. Neely is willing to acknowledge that which many of us are not - Anxiety is a Choice! Never accusatory, Dr. Neely understands that we live in a world that is worry-driven. We live with menacing threats like terrorism, economic uncertainty, racial unrest, a breakdown of trust between law enforcement and the citizenry, gun violence, mass shootings, and more. However, Neely explains that we need to remember that we are to be in an intimate relationship with God and that when we are, habitual worry will vanish.
Neely provides a sure-fire way to maintain this intimacy. Do you know what it is? Prayer, of course! Neely defines and explains some components of prayer: Supplication, Thanksgiving, and Requests. He also gets very practical and provides his thoughts on biblical meditation, how to increase your prayer time, and Scripture to help along the way. This short book is equal parts powerful and practical. I highly recommend How to Overcome Worry by Dr. Winfred Neely.
February 11, 2018
Worry is something I do incredibly well. So when any book comes across, I gobble it up. I love how Dr. Neely not only helps you identify what is concern verses worry, but he tells you how to handle the worry situation. He also backs up everything he says with scripture, which is something that makes me feel at ease knowing that the author's beliefs line up with mine. Only God can provide you with that soul soothing peace, and Dr. Neely's book guides you through the steps to achieve that.
June 22, 2018
How to Overcome Worry: Experiencing the Peace of God in Every Situation by Winfred Neely is a slim paperback that is perfect for travel. A book that is informative and full of scripture. This fast-paced read shares with you what the Bible says about worry and how to turn all your worries over to God through prayer and thanksgiving. I highly recommend this book. A great addition to your daily Bible study.
August 27, 2017
I was excited to read this book after hearing the author on a local radio station and it exceeded my expectations! It's a short book but is comprehensive in its coverage how to remove anxiety from your mind and replace it with peace. The book also has some appendices that cover further verses related to anxiety & questions that can be used for individual study or in a small group.
January 3, 2019
Growing in prayer to combat worry
I believe this book does a great job of relating to everyday life. Dr. Neely gives great examples of real life experiences. On top of that there are lots of practical tips and resources to implement into everyday Christian Life. I would encourage anybody looking to overcome worry or just grow in their prayer life to take a look at this book.
I believe this book does a great job of relating to everyday life. Dr. Neely gives great examples of real life experiences. On top of that there are lots of practical tips and resources to implement into everyday Christian Life. I would encourage anybody looking to overcome worry or just grow in their prayer life to take a look at this book.
August 22, 2018
This book is a concise yet clear exposition of Philippians 4:6-7. Dr. Winfred Neely gives practical strategies on how to overcome anxiety in our lives. I thoroughly enjoyed it and was encouraged by it.
February 14, 2021
Prayer is the key
To overcome worry and anxiety trust in God is essential. There’s no better way to demonstrate trust in God and unburden ourselves from the things that stress us out than to commit them to prayer and trust God for the outcome no matter what that may be.
To overcome worry and anxiety trust in God is essential. There’s no better way to demonstrate trust in God and unburden ourselves from the things that stress us out than to commit them to prayer and trust God for the outcome no matter what that may be.
January 15, 2018
Amazing
Practical scriptures and knowledge to overcome worry. I bookmarked and highlighted and took notes. I’ll definitely be reading this again.
Practical scriptures and knowledge to overcome worry. I bookmarked and highlighted and took notes. I’ll definitely be reading this again.
July 20, 2020
The Scriptures provided were helpful but I felt like the whole thing could have been summed up in "Pray, Read your Bible".
June 2, 2022
Quick read with great application & scripture resources.
March 28, 2017
Is It Possible to Overcome Worry?
It has been said that “imagination” is the 21st-century equivalent to the scriptural word “heart,” the center of emotion and intellect in biblical physiology. That may well be true, for many times it is my imagination that causes me to run aground in this following life. As if there were not enough stressful events going on in the world around me, I waste my time pushing past the present and into “what if” territory. Dr. Winfred Neely, with the help of the Apostle Paul, offers words for the worry epidemic that plagues our anxious world.
Ironically, for those who believingly follow Jesus Christ, worry goes beyond the vexing footfalls of a sleep thief, and stomps into the room as a perplexing theological ogre, for if I believe in the sovereignty of God, the burning question is: Can God be counted on to protect me and the people I love from harm?
Obviously bad things happen to good people on this broken ground, and we wonder How to Overcome Worry when so often the ways of God are “shrouded in mystery.” “Anxiety can reside in virtually every nook and cranny of human experience,” and yet the Apostle’s directive in Philippians 4 is clear:
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Paul had every reason to worry. He was writing from prison, and the Roman Empire was in the grip of the sadistic (and probably insane) Emperor Nero — an unlikely source of justice. Did Paul have the ability to simply turn his worries off like a faucet? Was he living on an ethereal, apostolic plane, completely indifferent to his surroundings?
Dr. Neely defines Paul’s use of the word “anxious” as “concern turned inward and deformed, divorced from the grace of God and rooted in unhealthy fear.” He offers the encouraging insight that it is possible to be deeply engaged with the people and events of our lives and yet to be free from the vice of habitual worry.
If you struggle with worrying, you will also benefit (as I have) from these practical principles for experiencing the peace of God:
*** It goes without saying (nonetheless, I will say it) that clinical anxiety is a medical condition and if you suffer from this affliction, the advice offered in this book will not be relevant to that specific situation. Dr. Neely is concerned with “anxiety as worry rooted in unbelief.” ***
“God is commanding us to look to Him instead of turning from Him.
Armed with the truth that anxiety is a choice, we conquer worry by taking everything to the Lord in prayer.
If Paul’s insistence that prayer is the antidote to worry seems like thin gruel and weak coffee to me, then I must examine my understanding and experience of prayer and the presence of God. This 1961 quote from A.W. Tozer is true of my 2017 heart:
“Where sacred writers saw God, we see laws of nature. Their world was fully populated; ours is all but empty. Their world was alive and personal; ours is impersonal and dead. God ruled their world; ours is ruled by the laws of nature, and we are always once removed from the presence of God.”
“Paul uses different terms for the different aspects of conversing with God.”
The words “supplication,” “thanksgiving,” and “requests” reveal facets of prayer that get at our neediness, the recognition that God has worked and will continue to work on our behalf, and that a right response to anxiety is to identify the thing we need and to take that need to God in prayer. Dr. Neely examines the “asking, seeking and knocking” life as a condition of continuous and habitual expectation of answers and intervention from God. It is a precious reminder that we bring our anxieties to God because we live in company with Him — not because He needs information (or my advice on how to solve the problem!).
“Worry is overcome by expecting peace from God.”
I will admit that I would prefer to get peace from circumstances that suit me: a car that never needs repair, a calendar with no surprise entries, and a family that is not subject to any distressing events. Instead, Paul points to a subversive way of life that short circuits my preoccupation with circumstances. He did not wish away his prison cell as a condition for experiencing the peace of God, but saw the anxiety-inducing circumstance of imprisonment as a teachable moment in the school of trust. He took from God a variety of peace that is not available elsewhere and which flows from the very character of God Himself:
“Since God is omnipotent, His peace is an all-powerful peace. Since God is eternal, His peace is without beginning or end. Since God is infinite, His peace is limitless. Since God is holy, His peace is pure.”
Peace is an “apologetic.”
Trusting God in spite of anxiety-laced circumstances puts the power of God on display. This in itself is a huge motivation to live in light of the truth of Philippians 4:6,7, and the practical truth offered in How to Overcome Worry is neither new nor earth-shattering. Dr. Neely prescribes active meditation upon the truth of God’s Word so that it penetrates our mind and our emotions (and I would add: our imagination!). Instead of shoving aside troubling thoughts with a scroll through Facebook or a comforting snack, what would happen if we consciously placed those thoughts before God and put ourselves at His disposal? Is it possible that we, like the Apostle Paul, would find His grace to be sufficient, if our worst case scenario came true?
How to Overcome Worry is not, in itself, a solution to the problem of anxiety in the life of the believer, but it is a helpful signpost, pointing the way to the promises of Scripture which are based upon the character of God. It is a counter-cultural call to the peace that comes with both the acceptance of present circumstances and trust for a future that lies in the hands of a sovereign God.
//
This book was provided by Moody Publishers in exchange for my review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
It has been said that “imagination” is the 21st-century equivalent to the scriptural word “heart,” the center of emotion and intellect in biblical physiology. That may well be true, for many times it is my imagination that causes me to run aground in this following life. As if there were not enough stressful events going on in the world around me, I waste my time pushing past the present and into “what if” territory. Dr. Winfred Neely, with the help of the Apostle Paul, offers words for the worry epidemic that plagues our anxious world.
Ironically, for those who believingly follow Jesus Christ, worry goes beyond the vexing footfalls of a sleep thief, and stomps into the room as a perplexing theological ogre, for if I believe in the sovereignty of God, the burning question is: Can God be counted on to protect me and the people I love from harm?
Obviously bad things happen to good people on this broken ground, and we wonder How to Overcome Worry when so often the ways of God are “shrouded in mystery.” “Anxiety can reside in virtually every nook and cranny of human experience,” and yet the Apostle’s directive in Philippians 4 is clear:
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Paul had every reason to worry. He was writing from prison, and the Roman Empire was in the grip of the sadistic (and probably insane) Emperor Nero — an unlikely source of justice. Did Paul have the ability to simply turn his worries off like a faucet? Was he living on an ethereal, apostolic plane, completely indifferent to his surroundings?
Dr. Neely defines Paul’s use of the word “anxious” as “concern turned inward and deformed, divorced from the grace of God and rooted in unhealthy fear.” He offers the encouraging insight that it is possible to be deeply engaged with the people and events of our lives and yet to be free from the vice of habitual worry.
If you struggle with worrying, you will also benefit (as I have) from these practical principles for experiencing the peace of God:
*** It goes without saying (nonetheless, I will say it) that clinical anxiety is a medical condition and if you suffer from this affliction, the advice offered in this book will not be relevant to that specific situation. Dr. Neely is concerned with “anxiety as worry rooted in unbelief.” ***
“God is commanding us to look to Him instead of turning from Him.
Armed with the truth that anxiety is a choice, we conquer worry by taking everything to the Lord in prayer.
If Paul’s insistence that prayer is the antidote to worry seems like thin gruel and weak coffee to me, then I must examine my understanding and experience of prayer and the presence of God. This 1961 quote from A.W. Tozer is true of my 2017 heart:
“Where sacred writers saw God, we see laws of nature. Their world was fully populated; ours is all but empty. Their world was alive and personal; ours is impersonal and dead. God ruled their world; ours is ruled by the laws of nature, and we are always once removed from the presence of God.”
“Paul uses different terms for the different aspects of conversing with God.”
The words “supplication,” “thanksgiving,” and “requests” reveal facets of prayer that get at our neediness, the recognition that God has worked and will continue to work on our behalf, and that a right response to anxiety is to identify the thing we need and to take that need to God in prayer. Dr. Neely examines the “asking, seeking and knocking” life as a condition of continuous and habitual expectation of answers and intervention from God. It is a precious reminder that we bring our anxieties to God because we live in company with Him — not because He needs information (or my advice on how to solve the problem!).
“Worry is overcome by expecting peace from God.”
I will admit that I would prefer to get peace from circumstances that suit me: a car that never needs repair, a calendar with no surprise entries, and a family that is not subject to any distressing events. Instead, Paul points to a subversive way of life that short circuits my preoccupation with circumstances. He did not wish away his prison cell as a condition for experiencing the peace of God, but saw the anxiety-inducing circumstance of imprisonment as a teachable moment in the school of trust. He took from God a variety of peace that is not available elsewhere and which flows from the very character of God Himself:
“Since God is omnipotent, His peace is an all-powerful peace. Since God is eternal, His peace is without beginning or end. Since God is infinite, His peace is limitless. Since God is holy, His peace is pure.”
Peace is an “apologetic.”
Trusting God in spite of anxiety-laced circumstances puts the power of God on display. This in itself is a huge motivation to live in light of the truth of Philippians 4:6,7, and the practical truth offered in How to Overcome Worry is neither new nor earth-shattering. Dr. Neely prescribes active meditation upon the truth of God’s Word so that it penetrates our mind and our emotions (and I would add: our imagination!). Instead of shoving aside troubling thoughts with a scroll through Facebook or a comforting snack, what would happen if we consciously placed those thoughts before God and put ourselves at His disposal? Is it possible that we, like the Apostle Paul, would find His grace to be sufficient, if our worst case scenario came true?
How to Overcome Worry is not, in itself, a solution to the problem of anxiety in the life of the believer, but it is a helpful signpost, pointing the way to the promises of Scripture which are based upon the character of God. It is a counter-cultural call to the peace that comes with both the acceptance of present circumstances and trust for a future that lies in the hands of a sovereign God.
//
This book was provided by Moody Publishers in exchange for my review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 29, 2017
With all the stress we face, worry seems like a given. Even though we are warned against it many times in the Bible, we still suffer from it. Reading Bible passages about God meeting our needs to often turns into an empty ritual. However, there is a way that we can take comfort in God's promises. Dr. Winfred Neely shows us that way in How to Overcome Worry.
As Dr. Neely writes, "The words of Scripture have penetrated the collective mind of the Western world for the last 2000 years and, as a result, their original and startlingly subversive power may be lost on us." As many times as we've heard the verses that deal with worry, we can tend to nod along but not take them to heart. Focusing mainly on Philippians 4:6-7, Dr. Neely breaks down God's promise to care for us, and never leave us. He shows what those verses say, and what that means for us. Dr. Neely also provides practical steps to apply Bible verses through prayer.
How to Overcome Worry is easy to read and understand. Though it is not a long book, there is plenty of information in it. No matter where you are in life, or how long you have been a Christian, this book can help you better understand how to keep worry from bogging you down.
I received a free copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for this honest review.
As Dr. Neely writes, "The words of Scripture have penetrated the collective mind of the Western world for the last 2000 years and, as a result, their original and startlingly subversive power may be lost on us." As many times as we've heard the verses that deal with worry, we can tend to nod along but not take them to heart. Focusing mainly on Philippians 4:6-7, Dr. Neely breaks down God's promise to care for us, and never leave us. He shows what those verses say, and what that means for us. Dr. Neely also provides practical steps to apply Bible verses through prayer.
How to Overcome Worry is easy to read and understand. Though it is not a long book, there is plenty of information in it. No matter where you are in life, or how long you have been a Christian, this book can help you better understand how to keep worry from bogging you down.
I received a free copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for this honest review.
April 1, 2017
Though short and easy-to-read, Dr. Winfred Neely has managed to saturate the pages of his book with truth. Using ideas and principles clearly laid out in God’s Word, Dr. Neely provides a straightforward and scriptural approach for dealing with the problem of worry. His advice is direct – but always backed up by Scripture. The reader is continually pointed back to the Lord – not towards self. This is anything but a “self-help” book….it’s a “with God’s help” book!
In the book, Dr. Neely encourages those who battle with worry and anxiety to turn to prayer – and to anticipate a response! This type of prayer-life results in the peace we are all so desperately craving. He writes, “Peace in the midst of life’s difficulties is the direct result of grateful, faith-based praying.” When we direct our eyes upward instead of inward and start to trust God – we’re able to experience that peace that passes understanding. (And isn’t that what we all want? Doesn’t that sound so much more inviting than a head full of worry?!)
Packed with memorable “gems” and words of wisdom, your copy of this book will likely be underlined, highlighted, dog-eared, and read many times over. Don’t miss the resources the author has included in the back of the book – including scripture that deals with worry and terrific discussion questions.
*I was given a copy of this title by the publisher. Opinions are my own.
In the book, Dr. Neely encourages those who battle with worry and anxiety to turn to prayer – and to anticipate a response! This type of prayer-life results in the peace we are all so desperately craving. He writes, “Peace in the midst of life’s difficulties is the direct result of grateful, faith-based praying.” When we direct our eyes upward instead of inward and start to trust God – we’re able to experience that peace that passes understanding. (And isn’t that what we all want? Doesn’t that sound so much more inviting than a head full of worry?!)
Packed with memorable “gems” and words of wisdom, your copy of this book will likely be underlined, highlighted, dog-eared, and read many times over. Don’t miss the resources the author has included in the back of the book – including scripture that deals with worry and terrific discussion questions.
*I was given a copy of this title by the publisher. Opinions are my own.
April 19, 2017
This is a very small book but has some great thought provoking ideas. Worry is a struggle and a constant for me. I like the explanation between concern and worry, something that gets jumbled. I enjoyed the first few parts of the book, after that I found it to be nothing I hadn't read before. So while overall there were some good things to take away, it probably isn't a book I would read again.
Three stars.
" I received this book from MP Newsroom for free. All opinions are my own."
Three stars.
" I received this book from MP Newsroom for free. All opinions are my own."
April 11, 2017
Worry and anxiety are things we all struggle with to varying degrees. Dr. Neely’s book addressing worry and anxiety is short and to the point, but it packs a significant amount of practical, applicable Truth on each page.
Filled with personal illustrative anecdotes and solidly supported by Scripture, Dr. Neely lays out a clear definition of worry. He points out the differences between healthy concern and care for those around us and ourselves versus worry/anxiety, which he defines as “the sinful response of the human heart and mind to real difficulties and problems in life…concern turned inward and deformed…a practical expression of unbelief.” He points out that habitual worry is a “trait of someone who is not in an intimate relationship with God.” Dr. Neely presents a clear method of relieving that worry or anxiety: prayer, as commanded in Philippians 4:6-7. “Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
That may sound overly simplistic, but Dr. Neely carefully unpacks what it means to pray in such a way that it truly alleviates one’s worry and anxiety. Prayer is the active discussion of one’s problems and situations with the God of the universe. Turning one’s focus away from one’s self and toward the Creator and Sustainer of the world truly gives a much better and broader perspective on the problem. Focusing on thankfulness rather than self-pity enables the person to rise above the circumstances. This is one of the most practical books I’ve read in a very long time.
Dr. Neely addresses worry and anxiety from a Scriptural point of view. If one does not believe the Bible or believe that God might have something of value to say about our lives, then the reader would not find this book useful or satisfying. However, if one believes in sufficiency of Scripture, that the Creator God does indeed have all the answers we need for any problem we face, then this book will be invaluable!
It seems to be popular in these days to put disclaimers on books about the Bible, that they do not have any bearing on medical, clinical, or psychological problems. While I understand the necessity of distancing an idea from the less responsible theologians (such as those who eschew all medical interventions to the detriment of the adherents), I do believe in the sufficiency and completeness of Scripture. To me, that means that even though one may experience significant medical or psychological issues, the Word of God still has the answers. In this case, I believe that even though one may be diagnosed with one or more of the currently popular psychological labels addressing anxiety, this book is still completely applicable. I say that because the Bible says that. Do you believe the Bible means what it says? Or not? Philippians 4:6-7 uses the 100% words of nothing, everything, and all. Be anxious for nothing…but in everything…surpasses all comprehension…. Those would include clinical diagnoses, I believe. I am not advocating eschewing medical intervention, therapy, or counseling. But I am saying that this book would add a much-needed dimension to the discussion, as psychology often excludes the spiritual nature and resolution of problems.
In summary, this book is an excellent and practical help for overcoming habitual worry and anxiety, helping the reader to discern when one crosses the line from concern to worry and providing practical steps for change and growth.
I gratefully received this book as an eARC from the author, publisher, and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
Filled with personal illustrative anecdotes and solidly supported by Scripture, Dr. Neely lays out a clear definition of worry. He points out the differences between healthy concern and care for those around us and ourselves versus worry/anxiety, which he defines as “the sinful response of the human heart and mind to real difficulties and problems in life…concern turned inward and deformed…a practical expression of unbelief.” He points out that habitual worry is a “trait of someone who is not in an intimate relationship with God.” Dr. Neely presents a clear method of relieving that worry or anxiety: prayer, as commanded in Philippians 4:6-7. “Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
That may sound overly simplistic, but Dr. Neely carefully unpacks what it means to pray in such a way that it truly alleviates one’s worry and anxiety. Prayer is the active discussion of one’s problems and situations with the God of the universe. Turning one’s focus away from one’s self and toward the Creator and Sustainer of the world truly gives a much better and broader perspective on the problem. Focusing on thankfulness rather than self-pity enables the person to rise above the circumstances. This is one of the most practical books I’ve read in a very long time.
Dr. Neely addresses worry and anxiety from a Scriptural point of view. If one does not believe the Bible or believe that God might have something of value to say about our lives, then the reader would not find this book useful or satisfying. However, if one believes in sufficiency of Scripture, that the Creator God does indeed have all the answers we need for any problem we face, then this book will be invaluable!
It seems to be popular in these days to put disclaimers on books about the Bible, that they do not have any bearing on medical, clinical, or psychological problems. While I understand the necessity of distancing an idea from the less responsible theologians (such as those who eschew all medical interventions to the detriment of the adherents), I do believe in the sufficiency and completeness of Scripture. To me, that means that even though one may experience significant medical or psychological issues, the Word of God still has the answers. In this case, I believe that even though one may be diagnosed with one or more of the currently popular psychological labels addressing anxiety, this book is still completely applicable. I say that because the Bible says that. Do you believe the Bible means what it says? Or not? Philippians 4:6-7 uses the 100% words of nothing, everything, and all. Be anxious for nothing…but in everything…surpasses all comprehension…. Those would include clinical diagnoses, I believe. I am not advocating eschewing medical intervention, therapy, or counseling. But I am saying that this book would add a much-needed dimension to the discussion, as psychology often excludes the spiritual nature and resolution of problems.
In summary, this book is an excellent and practical help for overcoming habitual worry and anxiety, helping the reader to discern when one crosses the line from concern to worry and providing practical steps for change and growth.
I gratefully received this book as an eARC from the author, publisher, and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
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