Be Anxious for Nothing

Be anxious 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

COVID-19 has officially put the Harmon clan in cleaning mode. After cleaning the closet I came across a pair of shoes that I have had for years. Honestly they are the best shoes. I think I have had them over 25 years. They fit perfect and feel great. To depart from those shoes now would be like losing a friend. 

When I read Philippians 4 I am reminded of a long friendship with a Bible passage that has lasted many years. I specifically love Philippians 4:6-7. This passage has brought me comfort many times throughout my Christian life. During times of great fear and anxiety God has used this passage to comfort my heart with His peace.

Clearly this passage teaches that we should keep our distance with the lingering expression of an anxious heart. His command is clear; “Be anxious for nothing”. The remedy to an anxious heart is prayer and supplications. The idea is that rather than spending time filled with anxiety focusing on the potential threat, turn your gaze to God with prayer and supplications. Talk with God about the potential threat that has filled your heart with anxious thoughts. We don’t often use the word “supplications”. The idea here is that I turn to God begging and pleading my case. This is to be done with thankfulness. This guards the heart against bitterness toward God. You remember His grace and faithfulness in your life and you have confidence in His continued goodness toward you.

The next time you encounter anxious thoughts I encourage you to pull out your Bible and turn to the fourth chapter of Philippians and develop a friendship wth the promises of God. Paul says the very peace of God “will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

​Pastor Billy