Anxiety can make everything feel louder than it really is.
A small problem can suddenly feel enormous. Your mind can run through the same thought repeatedly, and sometimes you just want something that will help you slow down long enough to breathe and remember that God is still present.
Music cannot solve every problem, and a song cannot replace the support you may need when anxiety becomes overwhelming. However, music can be a beautiful companion during difficult moments. A familiar voice, a comforting lyric, or a quiet worship song can help create space to pray, reflect, and remember the truths we believe.
That is why we put together this little playlist.
These are four gospel songs I believe you reach for when you need a reminder that God is near.
Jireh – Maverick City Music and Elevation Worship
The song reminds us that God is enough and encourages us to find contentment in Him, even when circumstances around us are uncertain.
That is particularly meaningful when you are anxious because anxiety often makes you focus on everything you do not have control over. The song gently brings your attention back to God and His care.
It Is Well – Bethel Music
The phrase It is well carries the idea of trusting God even when circumstances are difficult, and Bethel Music’s version is one we love listening to.
It is a beautiful song to play when your mind feels unsettled because it does not pretend that difficult circumstances do not exist. Instead, it points you towards the peace that can come from trusting God in the middle of them.
Looking to Jesus – Dunsin Oyekan
Fear is often right there alongside anxiety, making everything feel heavier than it needs to be. The song draws from the story of Peter walking on water in Matthew 14. Peter was able to step out of the boat and walk towards Jesus, but the moment he took his eyes off Jesus and began looking at the wind and the waves around him, fear took over and he began to sink.
That picture feels especially familiar when we think about anxiety. Sometimes we can become so focused on everything happening around us that we lose sight of the One who is holding us through it all.
Looking to Jesus brings us back to that simple reminder. When fear becomes loud and the circumstances around us feel overwhelming, we can turn our attention back to Christ and remember where our confidence comes from.
O Come to the Altar – Elevation Worship
This song encourages people carrying burdens, regret, sorrow, and exhaustion to come to Jesus, and that makes it a fitting song for anxious moments.
You do not have to have everything figured out before you pray. You do not need to arrive with the perfect words. You can simply bring what is troubling you and place it before God.
If you are feeling anxious today, perhaps put on one of these songs and give yourself a few quiet minutes. You can also talk to someone you trust if you need to, and remind yourself that you do not have to carry everything alone.
What gospel song do you listen to when you need peace?
Share it with us. Someone else might need that song today too.
