Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God”.
I often feel guilty for being so anxious about life. After all, if I really was a strong believer then I would simply do what Paul told the Philippians. I read that verse with misgivings. How can I tell anyone not to be anxious when I fail so miserably myself?
OK, Paul. Why were you telling those Philippians not to be anxious? Surely they didn’t face the difficulties we encounter today. Or did they? The problems themselves might have been different but the anxiety was still the same.
Paul wrote these new converts with love and compassion for the Lord that consumed him. Recently coming out of their pagan culture to become Christians, these poor people were besieged within their community and possibly faced imprisonment or even death for coming to faith. Slightly more threatening than my life!!
Paul speaks of “his chains” (Phil 1:16)…..supposedly from his Roman prison, yet he wasn’t anxious! What faith! He is encouraging this little flock to retain their faithfulness and not to be overwhelmed by anxious thoughts. He reassured them that God’s grace through the Spirit will sustain them.
Along with prayer he told them to always be thankful for what God gives them. In his rabbinic mindset, Paul, knew that whatever God gives or allows, is for our good. Therefore we can be assured of praying with thanksgiving!!
Now Paul tells them and us
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Phil 4:8)
Here’s my plan. Concentrate on God’s good gifts….replacing the “what if’s” with “He loves me and wants the best for me.” ….now repeat after me and slowly!
“and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your (our) hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:7)
AbideLines 