Adler believed we create patterns of behavior to protect our inflated self-esteem and to maintain a fictional, elevated feeling of self-importance. This puts the focus on us, that we are powerful in our own might and our choices are those that are self-centered, not God-centered. It’s as if God doesn’t even factor into the equation. But the Bible says to put our trust in God in all that we do, not ourselves. Proverbs 3:5-7: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.” We need to acknowledge God and not trust in our own wisdom and strength. God wants us to trust in Him, recognize His wisdom and guidance in all that we do. When we rely on ourselves and build ourselves up, we are creating a false sense of security. The irony is that this often leads to more anxiety!

According to Adler, we develop these safeguarding tendencies as a protection against anxiety. But God says don’t worry. Phillipians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Finally, Adler held that these safeguarding tendencies are largely conscious. I agree with Adler to an extent. Even though we may develop habits which cause us to deal with the world without really thinking about our choices, we still consciously choose whether to serve God in that moment or satan. Adler believed that we choose to react. But God wants us to be proactive not reactive. When we “react” to situations, often times we sin and it results in more anxiety– the very thing we are trying to defend ourselves against. “Prepare your minds for action. . . .” the Bible says in 1 Pet. 1:13. We should respond the way God commands. Also, when we choose, we should choose to be more like Jesus. God has given us a free will to choose between good and evil. Joshua 24:15 says “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…”

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