During last Sunday’s service, my pastor was preaching about anxiety, and that sermon got me thinking about how we, as Christians, deal with anxiety and where we believe it stems from. Having struggled with anxiety a few years ago, I was led to research more on this topic and share my discoveries. One of my discoveries was that a lot of Christians wonder, “Does Satan cause anxiety?”
According to the Bible, Satan causes anxiety through his ability to deceive and manipulate. One example is implied in 1 Peter 5:8, which says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” This verse suggests that Satan is actively seeking to cause harm, including anxiety, and that Christians should be watchful and vigilant.
In this article, I invite you to join me as we delve into the topic of anxiety and uncover answers to questions such as where in the Bible it says Satan causes anxiety and what the Bible says about anxiety. So, if you’d like to learn about this and so much more, read along.
Where in the Bible does it say the devil causes anxiety?
There are several instances in the Bible where Satan is depicted as a source of fear and distress for God’s people, including Luke 8:11-15, which suggests that Satan can use worries and cares of this world to distract and hinder people from growing spiritually. Also, in Job 2:7, “Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the crown of his head.” the Bible implies how Satan can cause physical and emotional suffering, which could include anxiety. Additionally, in John 14:27, the Bible encourages believers implying that we have the peace of Christ and, therefore, we shouldn’t be troubled.
What does ‘worry is the devil’s weapon’ mean?
The phrase “worry is the devil’s weapon” means that when we worry excessively, we give the devil a foothold in our lives. It is often said that worrying is a form of fear, and the Bible teaches that fear is not from God, but rather from the enemy. When we worry, we focus on our problems and our limitations rather than trusting in God’s promises and His ability to provide for us. 1 Peter 5:7 implies that we should give our worries to God and trust that He will take care of us. When we hold onto our worries, we are not trusting in God’s love and provision for us. Matthew 6:25-34 and Proverbs 12:25 also imply this.
What tricks does the devil use to cause anxiety?

One of the primary tricks the devil uses to cause anxiety is tempting us to focus on our problems, worries, and fears rather than on God’s promises and provision. He tries to make us doubt God’s goodness and love for us, and this can lead to anxiety and despair. Another way that the devil causes anxiety is by tempting us to compare ourselves with others. He wants us to focus on what we don’t have or what others have that we don’t rather than on God’s blessings in our lives. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and anxiety, as implied in 2 Corinthians 10:12.
The devil also tries to cause anxiety by tempting us to dwell on the past or worry about the future. He wants us to focus on our mistakes, failures, and regrets, or the uncertainties and potential dangers of the future, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and hopelessness.
How do I know if the devil is causing my anxiety?
One sign that the devil may be causing your anxiety is if it is accompanied by thoughts or feelings that are contrary to God’s character and teachings. For example, if your anxiety is causing you to doubt God’s love, provision, or goodness, then it may be an indication that the devil is at work. The Bible teaches us that God is love, as 1 John 4:8 implies, and that He works for the good of those who love Him, as Romans 8:28 speculates. If your anxiety is causing you to doubt these truths, then it may be a sign that the devil is trying to deceive you.
Another sign that the devil may be causing your anxiety is if it is accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, or condemnation. The devil is known as the accuser of the brethren, as Revelation 12:10 suggests, and he often tries to make you feel guilty or ashamed of your past mistakes or current struggles.
How do I deal with anxiety?

To deal with anxiety, trust in God’s plan and provision, as you can find peace and comfort in trusting that God has a plan for your life and that He will provide for your needs. As Proverbs 3:5-6 and Matthew 6:25-33 implies. Also, pray and seek God’s guidance, as Philippians 4:6-7 suggests, “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.” Lastly, surround yourself with supportive people, as Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 suggests.
What does the Bible say about anxiety?
The Bible encourages us to turn to God in prayer and present our requests to Him instead of being anxious in Phillipians 4:6-7. It promises that the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds as we trust Him. The Bible also reminds us that God is in control and will provide for our needs if we seek Him first. It encourages us not to worry about the future but to trust in God’s provision for each day. It encourages us to give our troubles to God and believe that He will sustain us. The Bible also says that God is with us in difficult times, and it encourages us not to be afraid.

As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.