From Fear to Faith: How Trust in God Can Quiet Anxiety and Worry

We are constantly exposed to reports of tragedies happening around the world. This daily flood of distressing information can affect our emotional well-being and create a tendency toward fear and worry. How can we deal with intrusive thoughts that something bad might happen to us or to our loved ones?

First and foremost, it is important to reduce constant exposure to the news. With the development of modern media, we are bombarded with updates about disasters from all over the world. It is no surprise that anxiety has become a global phenomenon.

For this reason, it is strongly recommended to significantly limit excessive exposure to upsetting news updates.

The Jewish Approach to Anxiety and Fear

A central verse in Tehillim offers guidance: “From bad news he shall not fear; his heart is steadfast, trusting in God” (Tehillim 112:7).

The commentary Metzudat David explains that when a person hears troubling news, he does not fear it, because his heart is secure in trusting that no harm will reach him. Similarly, the Radak explains that a righteous person does not fear hearing bad news about distant relatives or the threat of enemies, because his heart is firmly anchored in trust in God.

The Talmud tells a story about Hillel the Elder. As he was walking along the road, he heard cries coming from the city. He said, “I am confident that this is not coming from my home.” About him, the verse says, “From bad news he shall not fear; his heart is steadfast, trusting in God” (Berachot 60a). Rava explains that because Hillel’s heart was filled with trust in God, he knew that no harm would befall him.

A person who truly trusts that no harm will come to them will naturally not feel fear when hearing difficult news. This sense of calm comes from deep trust in divine mercy.

Trust Itself Brings Protection

Another verse in Tehillim reinforces this idea: “Many are the pains of the wicked, but one who trusts in God is surrounded by kindness.”

The Midrash explains that even a person who is not righteous, and might otherwise be deserving of hardship, if they trust in God, they will be surrounded by kindness. Simply placing one’s trust in God, regardless of spiritual level, can awaken divine mercy and protection.

The Chafetz Chaim, in the name of the Vilna Gaon, writes that the trait of trust does not depend on one’s merits. Even a person who is not especially worthy, if they strengthen their trust in God, that very trust protects them and brings divine kindness upon them.

The Power of Thought and Focus

A powerful principle emerges from all of this. If we focus on God’s kindness and mercy, remind ourselves of His love for us, and trust that only good will come our way, with full confidence and without doubt, then we draw that same kind of divine conduct upon ourselves.

On the other hand, dwelling on negative thoughts about potential disasters can create spiritual accusation, which may lead, Heaven forbid, to those fears materializing. This idea is reflected in the verse from Iyov: “For the thing I feared has come upon me.”

Therefore, it is essential to focus on thoughts of faith, trust, and a future filled with revealed good.

Trust Can Override Even Harsh Decrees

Another supporting verse states: “For God will be your confidence and will guard your foot from being trapped” (Mishlei 3:26).

Rabbi Yeshaya of Trani explains that no harm will come to a person who places their trust in God and observes His commandments. Rabbeinu Yonah adds that through Torah observance and trust, God protects a person from all trouble, as it says, “He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.”

He further writes that one who trusts in God can be lifted out of danger as a reward for that trust, even if the trouble was originally destined to come. As the verse says, “A person’s anxiety becomes a trap, but one who trusts in God will be protected” (Mishlei 29).

This teaches that even after a negative decree has been issued, the power of trust in God can nullify it and save a person from harm.

The promise that “one who trusts in God is surrounded by kindness” brings a person to a state of calm and inner peace. Through trust in divine mercy, we can influence how Heaven relates to us, transforming it into a mode of protection, kindness, and compassion.

A Practical Strengthening Tool

It is helpful to regularly listen to teachings about faith and trust. These strengthen both the understanding and the emotional awareness that the Creator runs the world, guides every situation, and ultimately does what is best for us.

From this awareness, we can reach true inner calm and emotional peace.