I once heard it said that anxious people look for reasons to feel anxious. At first, I laughed; why would anyone want to feel anxious?

But as I dug deeper, I started to feel differently. Nobody wants to feel anxious. But sometimes, the lingering nature of anxiety can make it difficult to feel at peace. There’s always something to feel anxious about, always something to dread, always something to keep us on our toes. By the time we put our heads down to sleep at night, we’ve spent half the day trying to talk ourselves out of feeling anxious, and the other half wondering if we’ve finally defeated our worrisome thoughts.

Have you been here before?

Maybe you’re anxious about your dead-end job. Maybe you’re worried about your dwindling savings account. Maybe you’re concerned about your son, who recently made a destructive decision. Maybe you can’t stop thinking about your appearance, your social skills or your less-than-designer wardrobe.

Whatever anxiety plagues you today, you can turn to God’s Word and meditate on reminders of his presence with you—even when you’re anxious. These five Bible verses will get you started:

Isaiah 26:3 (GNTD)

You, Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you.

1 Peter 5:7 (GNTD)

Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.

John 16:33 (GNTD)

I have told you this so that you will have peace by being united to me. The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world!”

Philippians 4:6-7 (GNTD)

Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. 7 And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.

John 14:27 (GNTD)

Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.