What Does the Bible Say About Overthinking?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

The Bible advises against overthinking. It teaches to trust in God and not to lean on our own understanding. Overthinking often leads to anxiety, which the Bible encourages us to cast on God. The message is clear: focus on today and leave tomorrow to God. There’s a lot more in the Bible on this, but that’s the gist of it.

Curious to know more? Stick around! We’re diving deep into what the Bible really says about overthinking and how you can apply it to your life.

What Does the Bible Say About Overthinking?

So, let’s get into it. The Bible has a lot to say about our thoughts and how we should handle them. Overthinking, in a biblical sense, can be seen as a lack of trust in God. It’s like we’re trying to take control of everything, doubting that God has got our back. Jesus himself talked about this in the New Testament.

He reminded us that by worrying (which is essentially what overthinking is), we can’t add a single hour to our life. Instead, He encourages us to seek God’s kingdom first. Trust that God knows what we need and will provide for us. That’s God’s view on the matter.

Paul, another key figure in the New Testament, adds to this. He tells us to focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Basically, fill your mind with good things, and there won’t be space left for overthinking the bad.

The Bible also warns that overthinking can lead us into sin. When our minds are not aligned with God’s truth, it’s easier to make poor choices. And let’s be real, overthinking rarely leads to positive outcomes. It usually leaves us feeling stressed, anxious, and worn out.

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But here’s the good news. The Bible doesn’t just highlight the problem; it provides the solution too. It’s filled with advice on how to combat overthinking. One key way is through prayer. By bringing our worries to God, we’re reminded that He is in control. We can let go of our overthinking and find peace in His presence.

Now, let’s take a closer look at some specific Bible verses that talk about overthinking.

Bible Verses About Overthinking

  1. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
  1. Matthew 6:34 (NIV): “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
  1. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
  1. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV): “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
  1. 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV): “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Now, I know we’ve covered a lot. And there are still more verses to go through. Stick with me! We’re just getting to the good part.