Philippians: A Life in ChristSample

Paul understands that the human heart can be filled with anxiety. He encourages the Philippians to talk to God about anything and everything they’re anxious about, knowing that God the Father loves them as deeply as he loves his Son.

“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)

The opposite of anxiety is peace. First, we have to distinguish between peace with God and the peace of God. Peace with God changes us forever; the peace of God is what we enjoy when our attitudes and choices are aligned with his will. What might it do for your peace, your anxiety, your conflict with others, and your joy if, when you wake up tomorrow, you remind yourself of one single truth: “I am in Christ.”

We see that prayer can be a powerful weapon against anxiety. It produces peace, a sense of oneness with God. Prayer is a reminder that God is with us, in and through whatever the overwhelming circumstance is. It’s usually not a one off prayer or a list of things that we want him to change. Prayer is an ongoing conversation and a longing for deeper intimacy with God our Father who loves us as his children.

What's the first thing you notice when you start feeling anxious? What is the connection between the amount that you worry and the amount that you pray?