Posted in Positive Flow

When the Bible Gives Me Anxiety Instead of Comfort

Posted on by dembysplayfulparables76

For many, the Bible is a source of comfort, a place they turn when life feels uncertain. But for me, it’s often the opposite. Reading certain parts of Scripture doesn’t bring me peace—it brings anxiety. And I know I’m not alone in this feeling, even if it’s not often talked about in church circles.

What troubles me most is how God is portrayed, especially in the Old Testament. Stories of entire villages being destroyed so the children of Israel could take the land—they don’t sit right with me. It feels less like divine justice and more like favoritism with a violent price tag. If God is love, why do so many people seem to get left out—or wiped out?

I wrestle with the idea that God might not want everyone to be saved. And when I read these stories, I can’t help but wonder: what if I’m not one of the “chosen”? That thought alone keeps me up at night.

Then I get to the New Testament and expect a change. Jesus arrives with compassion and mercy, right? But then I read about Him rebuking the Pharisees and others who followed the very laws God gave them. It almost feels like a teenager rebelling against a strict parent. Of course, I know that’s not what’s really happening—Jesus wasn’t rebelling but revealing the heart behind the law. Still, it’s hard to reconcile.

If God gave the law, why does it feel like Jesus is so hard on those who cling to it? If the Old Testament shows a God of order and commands, and the New Testament shows a God of grace, how do those pieces fit together without creating confusion and fear?

I’m not writing this because I have answers. I’m writing this because I need space to ask the questions. Faith isn’t always a straight line—it’s often a winding road through doubt, discomfort, and discovery. And maybe that’s okay.

Maybe God is big enough to handle my anxiety. Maybe He’s not offended by my questions. And maybe, in time, I’ll find a way to see these hard stories through a lens of hope rather than fear.

But for now, I’m still wrestling.

For Reflection:
“Now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”
— 1 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV)

Unknown's avatar

Author:

Kyri Demby, author, is a native Floridian, born and raised in Crestview, Fl. He is the middle child of seven children born to Linda Brown. Kyri began writing stories and songs at the age of thirteen. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education as well as in Church Music from Bethune-Cookman University and also a Master of Education Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida. “Each one must reach one (or two or three)!” is Kyri’s belief about teaching and community service. He is a mentor to many students as well as other professionals. Kyri has written many stories and published several other books. . He has visited many schools, churches, and community centers teaching his playful parables and speaking to children. Kyri is the founder of Let Music Live Inc., "his pride and joy"; a community program incorporates music with drama. He believes that he is changing the world, one child at a time!

Leave a comment