Philippians 4:4-8

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: rejoice!5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

 

Do not be anxious about anything. Philippians 4:6

Have you ever received a message on your phone, seen who it’s from and instantly felt stressed? During an especially difficult period, whenever an email from a particular person pinged in my inbox, I automatically assumed I was being challenged. My mind would spin with worst-case scenarios before I even opened it! My anxiety seized control.

Anxiety often emerges when we fear circumstances, face the unknown or feel like we aren’t in control. It can quickly take over our thoughts and actions. Addressing this danger, the Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians, “Do not be anxious about anything” (4:6). How? “In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (V. 6).

We may have reasons to fear, but God is always in control. As we hand over each concern to Him, we’re promised “the peace of God . . . will guard your hearts and minds” (V. 7). This peace is more than a nice feeling, it is a guard protecting us when anxiety wants to take over. It is an assurance that “in Christ Jesus” we are securely held by One who is truly “excellent and praiseworthy” (VV. 7–8).

It’s easy to let situations overwhelm us. But I’m learning to let God use this verse to calm me so I can prayerfully surrender my fears to Him. In Christ we can access the peace that is infinitely stronger than whatever we face.

Where is anxiety trying to seize control over you? How can bringing it to God in prayer help you experience the guarding presence of His peace?

Dear Lord, when anxiety wants to take over, please remind me that You are in control. Thank You for answering my prayers and for guarding me with Your peace.