“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:6-7
Living in this day and age, if you turn on the television, you will be given something to worry about. The world seems on constant high alert concerning potential destruction and wants to make sure you are devoting your time to think about what if. What if our country goes to war? What if your child gets sick? What if the stock market crashes? It’s easy to say “don’t worry,” but when faced with the fear of dealing with potentially terrible situations, the stress of our day to day life can leave us paralyzed with anxiety.
Anxiety doesn’t feel like something we can choose out of or just turn off. It’s something that builds up in our chest, only alleviated by assurance, like when our loved one walks through the door after not being able to reach them long into the night. Assurance moves the focus from what if to what is.
The Bible gives us both assurance in God’s presence and power. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Then Paul in the above verse says the very peace of God, surpassing all human understanding, will be the gatekeeper to our heart and mind. Today, we open our anxious mind to His presence and His peace, which we can rest assured in.
Reflection
What are you anxious about? Have you brought these concerns to Jesus?
Picture God/Jesus/Holy Spirit engaging with what you’re worried about. What is their response to your concerns?
Prayer
Lord, oftentimes my worries seem overwhelming and absolutely paralyzing. It seems the more I try to not worry, the more I have to worry about. I feel stuck. Reveal yourself to me, that I may know your presence, and feel you around me as I encounter the stress of my day to day life. Give me assurance that no matter what I face, You are with me and there is nothing too great for You. I receive Your peace, even though I may not understand it, as the guard to my heart and mind. I place my trust in it, certain that you have overcome the world. Amen
