Faith: The Antidote to Anxiety

What is the opposite of faith—doubt or unbelief? The renowned theologian Ronald Rolheiser, drawing from scripture scholars, suggests that for Jesus, “the opposite of faith was not doubt or unbelief, but anxiety—being anxious.” We experience both surface-level anxiety about day-to-day tasks and deeper, unconscious anxiety related to our very existence—our need to feel significant, accepted, and loved.

As Rolheiser points out, “We are born anxious.” As infants, we depend entirely on caregivers for love and protection. This anxiety shows itself in our cries and other physical expressions, asking, "Will I be fed, cared for, protected, and loved?" The anxiety persists as we grow into children, adolescents, and even adults, struggling to find security, self-worth, and acceptance.

While some anxiety may be caused by clinical or environmental factors, much of it can stem from a lack of faith—faith in God, in others, and in ourselves. Anxiety often reflects mistrust in God’s care, doubt in the goodness of others, and insecurity about our inherent worth. Reclaiming faith allows us to overcome the anxiety that clouds our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

True faith invites us to begin releasing our anxieties. A deep faith in God serves as a powerful antidote to the constant worry that burdens us, guiding us toward a life of peace, trust, and connection.

 

Notes,

Rolheiser, R. (2014). Sacred fire: A vision for a deeper human and Christian maturity. Image, p. 36.