"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Philippians 4:6 NIV
Philippians chapter 4 tells us of many good "wants".
We want "to stand firm in faith" (v1), to be able to "rejoice always" (v4), to have the "peace of God that transcends all understanding" (v7), and we also want to think of "things that are excellent or praiseworthy" (v8). These are great and noble desires.
Yet in our daily life, many of us do not experience these. Instead, when we are faced with difficulties, we doubt, grumble in despair, feel irritated and unsettled, and we think of numerous negative thoughts.
"Why so?"
This question answers the question, "Why pray?"
Unfortunately for many of us, prayer is the last thing that we do when we encounter challenges. And because of this, we have to labor through the anxiety and pain of the situations.
Clearly, Paul advocates that in order to have all those desirable wants he mentioned, we should first pray. "In everything..", he says, pray and that we "do not be anxious".
God assured His redeemed (us!) in Isaiah 65:24 "Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear."
The Lord is speaking to me. I am committing all my cares to Him, including anxiety. Oh, what a relief that is!
"Is it possible not to worry?", you may ask.
My answer is, "Try it as prescribed by Paul." And see the result for yourself.
Praise the Lord.
Steven
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Hi Steven
ReplyDeleteYou subject came at the right moment. It is God's confirmation to me not to be anxious over anything. This verse in Philippines has seen me thru many difficult times and this verse is memorised in my heart & mind. I am going thru a change of boss in a couple of months. I honestly do not know what is ahead. Will I find favour in my new boss? will I need to leave Leica for early retirement. However, I find peace knowing that God is with me and He will see me thru, if I hit and close door, He will always open a window for me. All we need is by prayer and supplication, let our request be make known to Him and the peace that surpasses all understanding will keep our heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Do cover me with your prayers too.
Maggie, James says that the earnest prayer of a righteous person is powerful. Let's pray and release the situation to Him who cares and love you. Steven
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