Finding Hope in Philippians for Living With Chronic Pain and Illness Sample

F.E.A.R.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. —Philippians 4:6

Philippians 4:6 has always been one of my favorite verses. In fact, many of my favorite verses have a similar theme: do not worry; do not fear, or do not be anxious. Ironically, I have a hard time following God’s commands in these passages. I often wonder why that is—why it’s so easy for me to give in to my fears and allow them to run wild in my mind. Perhaps you have some of the same questions.

My pastor told me this acronym for “fear” a few years ago, and I loved it: False Evidence Appearing Real. I have found it to be a powerful reminder that there is no point in my fears because the vast majority of my anxieties never happen. The enemy, however, likes to blow things out of proportion every chance he gets. Sadly, it seems, he does it quite regularly. My symptoms and pain can be unpredictable, and chronic illness, in general, fuels fears. So, when the icepick stab, muscle spasm, zapping pain, shortness of breath, or a new symptom appears, the enemy grabs on to that and doesn’t want to let go. My what-if thoughts go into overdrive.

Worry is prevalent in today’s society, and it’s a powerful force. Worry erodes the spirit and increases frustration, as well as pain. It can feel like it’s strangling us, and it literally makes us sick. And, sadly, it’s next to impossible to totally eliminate worry on our own. That’s where Philippians 4:6 comes into play.

Paul wrote today’s verse. His encouraging words serve as a reminder that while life is full of uncertainties and trials, God’s faithfulness and love are guaranteed. Nothing is too big or too small to take to the Lord in prayer. In fact, there are numerous places in the Bible that point out that we are to cast our cares on Him. God offers us peace that passes all understanding. So, follow Paul’s example and take your anxieties to the Lord in prayer. (Make that your go-to option!) Accept His peace. Then praise Him in advance for the promises He is working on your behalf.

Lord, thank You that I can come to You with anything and receive Your peace in return. Amen.