“Be anxiety for nothing, 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 minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4: 6-7)
The Bible says in Philippians 4: 6-7 not to fret or worry about today or tomorrow. Instead of worrying we should pray and let our petitions be presented to our Heavenly Father who always hears and answers our prayers according to His riches in glory. So, let your petitions and praises be received in heaven letting the LORD our God know your concerns. Our anxieties and concern whether our friends will accept us, whether we have funds to pay our bills and other commitments, getting everything done that needs to be done; and whether people will accept our decisions and choices. Anxieties began to mount up all around and everywhere we turn.
What should we do in such a time as this? We need to learn to turn our anxiety into a prayer. Each time we find ourselves in a situation we can turn these circumstances to the LORD our God and we will find that trusting in the LORD will began to grow. Instead of anxiety ruling in our lives, Christ will dwell in our heart, mind, soul and spirit giving us His love, joy and peace.
Scripture Verses for Meditation
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy lades, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27)
Prayer
Lord, You know that I have so often like Martha Lazarus sister focused on life. I am anxious and worried about the details of my life. Give me a heart like Mary the sister of Lazarus. Lord, help me to always choose Your presence as my first priority – and then my heart will be at rest and peace. Lord, when this happens then everything will be well with my soul and will not be anxious for nothing in this life. Use my anxiety, Lord, to remind me that I am dependent on Your love, joy and peace. Lord God, You know my every anxiety. I cast each one on You, for I know You care for me. Teach me loving Creator, to trust and obey You with all my heart. Help me not to depend on my own understanding. I know that when I seek Your direction and guidance, you will lead me on straight paths. I do not want to rely on my own wisdom. Instead I choose to respect Your Word. When I do this, my heart will be at peace – and anxiety will no longer steal my body’s health. In the name of the Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Scripture verses taken from the New King James Version of the Holy Bible.
By Constance A. Burns, NAAV Contributor for Moments of Meditation and Scriptural Readings; email: cburns@naavets.org