I Choose PeaceSample

Choosing Peace in Anxious Moments

You do not have to live with anxiety. It is possible to have complete peace in the midst of difficult, uncertain, troubling times. We know this is true because Jesus promised that we could. And His Word provides the tools to do it. 

The apostle Paul gives us a specific game plan. He writes, 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

Command #1: Paul’s first instruction focuses on behavior you must stop. You need to quit worrying.

Command #2: His second instruction is positive action you must start. You need to ask God for help. 

Here’s the way Paul lists how. In every situation (which includes all your anxiety-producing circumstances!) approach God in worshipful prayer, petition Him for mercy, offer Him thanksgiving, and present Him with specific requests.

What is the promised result? God will give you His peace, and it will guard your heart and mind!

The reality, though, is that this takes practice. Thought patterns don’t change immediately. Old pathways battle against the new ones you’re building. You must be tenacious about it and trust God.

Peace and anxiety cannot coexist. But the good news is, anxiety and prayer can’t coexist either. So, use every anxious thought to motivate yourself to pray. God wants you to experience the peace that “transcends all understanding,” even in your anxious moments.