Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 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. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:6-8
Sometimes our prayers do little for our fears. I wonder whether it is because we are practicing the opposite of verse 8 (dwelling on the bad things that we can’t change), neglecting thanksgiving (verse 6), and not being obedient to the things we can change (verse 9).
Yes, this week, I’ve had opportunity to put this passage into practice. I’ve seen God calm my fears, put them into perspective, and challenge me to action. That’s an answer to my prayers, but I’d be grateful if you prayed for me more! I’ll pray for you, too. How is God’s Word changing you this week?
I love this passage, and it is a reminder I needed today with a nasty cough in the house! I fear another round of pneumonia and an eventual asthma diagnosis. I need to dwell on what is true, not what ‘could be.’ Thank you!