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Don’t be Anxious about Anything
Read: Philippians 3:17-4:9
What are you worried about? Finances? Relationships? Job issues? The health of a loved one? Taking exams? Many things in life can cause us to be anxious. Stress levels begin to increase and worry sets in. However, Paul tells us to not to be anxious about anything. But how is this possible?
Instead of being anxious, Paul says to give everything to God in prayer. It’s only after we do this that the peace of God will fill our hearts and minds. This is a powerful lesson to take to heart. When you find yourself worrying about something or becoming anxious, stop and give it to God. Nothing is too small or too big for him. He cares about everything you’re going through and doesn’t want you to worry about anything. When we start to take matters into our own hands we get anxious, but it’s after we release it to God that we’re filled with his peace.
In Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus says not to worry about your life, your body, what to eat or drink, what to wear, or what will happen tomorrow. If God provides for the needs of the birds and clothes flowers in beauty and splendor, how much more will he take care of you? Worrying is non-productive and won’t add a single hour to your life. Instead, Jesus says to seek God and his righteousness and God will provide for all of your needs.
Worry is a form of distrusting God. Worrying tells God that you don’t trust him to provide for you or that you doubt his ability or his care. When you take matters into your own hands it can lead to feelings of doubt, helplessness, worry or despair. Prayer is a powerful weapon against these. Take all your worries and prayerfully give them to God. He’s waiting for you to surrender your worries to him so he can bless you with his peace that surpasses all human understanding- a peace that comes from God alone. It will guard your heart and your mind as you trust him. Take a moment to think back on all the ways God has blessed and provided for you in the past and thank him for what he has done and for what he’s going to do.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
Reflect: Read Philippians 3:17-4:9 and reflect on the following questions:
- What are you anxious or worried about? Are you trying to take situations into your own hands that should be given to God?
- Do you pray about everything? Do you believe that God cares about everything that concerns you, both big and small?
- What do you think it means for God’s peace to guard your heart and your mind? Have you experienced this peace that transcends all understanding? If so, how would you describe it to someone who had never experienced it?
Remember: Weekly memory verses
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:4-7, NIV)
Going further:
Make a list of things you are anxious about. One by one give them to God in prayer and ask him to replace your worry with a peace that transcends all human understanding. Thank Him for his loving provision and for caring about your needs and everything that concerns you.
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