Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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.
Philippians 4:6-7
In these trying times, it is easy to be flooded with thoughts that cripple you. Looking at the situation outside, or in the news, the future seems bleak.
This week, we have been reminded through the encouragement Paul has given to the Philippians. No matter the hardships we face, no matter the situation we feel we are stuck in, our response should be of prayer and petition. That we present our requests to God with gratitude in our hearts.
- Do not be anxious about anything
Paul speaks from a position of having experienced all sorts of things in the name of Jesus. He is not out of touch with reality. He is completely in sync with the eternal reality within him.
- Prayer petition and thanksgiving
Being anxious is like sitting on a rocking chair, you keep moving but it takes you nowhere! Worrying stresses your mind out, without any positive results. Paul directs us into filling our thoughts with prayers, petition, and thanksgiving.
- Peace from God, which transcends all understanding
From the context of the word, peace encompasses all the areas of life. It means to be complete, to be whole, and not lacking in anything. The peace that comes from God is rooted in the finished work of Christ. Its task is to guard our hearts and our minds
God wants to hear from you! He is your Father! Let Him know the things that trouble your heart. Let Him know the plans you have in your heart.