Overcoming Worry & Stress

Pastor Doug Heisel - June 7, 2026

Myth: PEOPLE and PROBLEMS cause my worry and stress.

Truth: How I THINK creates worry and stress.

Psalm 23:1-4 – The LORD is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack. In green pastures He makes me lie down; to still waters He leads me; He restores my soul. He guides me along right paths for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff comfort me.

Five Powerful Truths About the LORD (YHWH)

1.  YHWH FORGIVES me when I fail.

I John 1:9 – If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

2.  YHWH HELPS me when I’m in trouble.

Isaiah 43:2-3 – When you go through deep waters and great trouble I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up...for I am the Lord your God.

Romans 8:28 – And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

3.  YHWH GUIDES me when I’m confused.

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way.

4.  YHWH PROVIDES for me when I am in need.

Philippians 4:19 – God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

5.  YHWH EMPOWERS me when I am weak.

Philippians 4:13 – I have strength for all things in Christ who empowers me - I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses inner strength in me.”

2 Corinthians 3:5-6 – Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant...

Life Group Discussion & Questions

BREAKING THE ICE:

If there was a kind of food that could bring you “comfort”, what is it and what is so satisfying about it to you?

DIGGING IN:

1. Read Psalm 23:1-4. David describes the LORD (YHWY) as a Shepherd — present, personal, guiding, protecting, and providing. Which phrase or picture from Psalm 23 stands out most to you right now and why?

2. Review the five truths (and verses) from this Sunday’s  message:

- He FORGIVES me when I fail.
- He HELPS me when I’m in trouble.
- He GUIDES me when I’m confused.
- He PROVIDES for me when I’m in need.
- He EMPOWERS me when I am weak.

Which one of these truths (or corresponding verses) do you need most in this season of your life? Share something about that and how believing this truth will help you.

BRINGING IT HOME:

Read Proverbs 3:5–6 together. There is a big difference between trusting God and simply trying harder to control everything yourself. Find a way to keep these truths in front of you all month long and see how they begin to transform your thinking.