015 - God Helped Me Handle My Anxiety
Almost 40 million Americans today deal with anxiety, and it can be challenging to overcome if you don’t have the proper tools to work through it. Our guest, BJ Allen, faced those challenges, and on today’s episode of Changing, he shares how he overcame his anxiety with the help of Jesus Christ.
BJ’s history with anxiety.
BJ had struggled with religious-based anxiety ever when he was a young child, obsessively worrying if he was enough for God or if God was disappointed in him.
A lot of his family struggles with anxiety, and it was his mom’s bad bout that encouraged her to learn how to manage it thanks to psychologists, counselors, and books.
Because of his mom’s efforts, BJ’s anxiety was calmed.
His mission reengaged his anxiety.
Going on his mission meant leaving his safe place. He felt vulnerable, especially as a representative of Jesus Christ.
He became aware of his weaknesses and mistakes. However, now as an adult, he changed the way he looks at his relationship with God.
When was his anxiety the most challenging?
Growing up as a teenager and hearing the various commandments, asking himself if he’s truly following them.
These obsessive thoughts manifest into other areas of his life, making him doubt himself in his profession and family.
BJ sought divine help.
Instead of praying to take it away, BJ asked God what he wanted him to learn from these experiences.
God changed how BJ viewed his religion and the commandments, teaching him that everyone, including himself, is worthy of love and admiration. God doesn't just love the perfectly obedient; God loves everybody.
BJ’s advice to anyone facing anxiety:
Don't battle it alone. Talk to your church leader, counselors, or even get on medication because God has given all those tools to help us.
Jesus Christ plays a central role in calming your anxiety. Remember that your worthiness and validation don’t come through yourself. They come through Jesus Christ.
The only one who can make you complete is Jesus Christ, and because he is always with us, you’ll always be complete through him.
If you have any more questions or want to learn more about BJ’s story, connect with him on LinkedIn, or email him at bjallen03@gmail.com.
MUSIC CREDIT: Audio Jungle
(Note: This podcast is not an official podcast of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
