Jesus: My dear ones, you ask if anxiety can be a benefit, and truly, there is wisdom in the question. In this world, which is filled with dangers and trials, anxiety can sometimes serve as a guardian. It heightens your awareness and keeps you watchful, much like a shepherd who watches over his flock against wolves. It is written, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). At times, anxiety stirs a kind of vigilance that keeps you from falling into harm.
James (son of Zebedee): Master, I know that feeling well, like a fire that makes me stay alert. When we traveled through places that were not friendly to us, I was always on edge, looking out for danger. Could that be the good side of anxiety, like a warning bell to keep us safe?
Jesus: Yes, James, it can be like a warning bell. Anxiety makes you aware of potential risks, prompting you to take precautions that may shield you from harm. When it stirs you to be cautious and alert, it can keep you from paths that may lead to trouble. Yet, I remind you that this awareness must not become an overbearing fear that paralyzes you. Rather, it should guide you wisely, not overwhelm your spirit. As I have said, “Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation” (Mark 14:38). It is good to be watchful, but with trust in God’s guidance.
Matthew: Lord, as one who collected taxes, I saw many schemes and deceitful dealings. Anxiety often kept me alert to those who might try to cheat or cause trouble. It made me more discerning of people’s motives. Could it be that anxiety sharpens our perception, helping us see things that others might miss?
Jesus: Yes, Matthew, anxiety can make one more perceptive, attuned to the subtleties that others might overlook. This is a form of wisdom, a way of seeing beneath the surface of things. However, this insight is most powerful when it is balanced with trust in God’s provision. You remember what I told you, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Anxiety’s sharpness can serve you well, but it should not overshadow the peace that I give you.
Simon the Zealot: Master, I understand the desire to stay on guard, especially when faced with danger or those who would do us harm. But sometimes, I find that my anxiety pushes me to mistrust others too easily. How can we know when to heed anxiety’s warning and when to let it go?
Jesus: Ah, Simon, it is a delicate balance. Anxiety can be a benefit when it makes you alert to real dangers, but you must discern when it has crossed into mistrust that is not of faith. When anxiety becomes a constant companion, whispering fear into your heart at every turn, that is when you must turn back to the truth that I have spoken to you. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you” (John 14:27). Lean on the Spirit, and He will guide you when to be watchful and when to rest in peace.
Andrew: Lord, it seems then that anxiety can be like a double-edged sword. It can keep us from danger and help us see hidden things, but it can also keep us from trusting You fully. Is it possible to find a middle way?
Jesus: Yes, Andrew, that is the heart of it—a middle way where vigilance is balanced with trust, where caution is tempered by faith. Think of it as the watchman on the walls of a city. He remains alert to approaching dangers but trusts that the city’s foundation is strong. Anxiety can make you a watchman, but remember that I am the cornerstone, and those who build upon me shall not be shaken. In this balance, you will find both wisdom and peace, for “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
Jesus: Let anxiety guide you toward awareness, but do not let it become your master. In it, you may find hidden benefits, but they are always meant to draw you closer to reliance upon God, who is the keeper of your soul.
