"Do Not Be Anxious..." But, How???Sample

Learn Paul’s Secret

Paul lets us in on a secret — the secret of his contentment. He says, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4: 12, 13)

Paul’s secret was not a five-step formula for unlocking peace. He wasn't launching a bestseller or selling an online course. His secret was his relationship with Christ — a secret we need to learn, imbibe, and grow in.

Paul encountered some of the most dreadful situations a person could possibly face. Many times, he knew beforehand the risks he would be taking by going to a new destination to share the good news. But Paul was never anxious. In fact, he was “content in any and every situation” because his peace didn’t come from his circumstances but was found in Christ.

We each have a choice. We can choose to handle our anxieties on our own. Or we can choose to give them to the Lord through prayer, to be intentional about thanksgiving, and to allow Him to surround us with His peace in the middle of life’s storms. Like Paul, may we too declare, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

You can experience the peace of God in every situation because you can rely on a God “who will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4: 20)

Reflect

Do I spend time remembering how God has already provided for me in the past? Does reflecting on God’s grace in my previous trials grow my confidence in Who He is? Do I believe that God will meet my every need according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus?

Respond

Father God, I know that turbulence in life is inevitable. I’m not immune from those harsh winds that disrupt my journey. But I thank You that I get to take this journey with You right beside me. Thank You that I don’t need to give in to anxiety because You are in perfect control of every detail, including every storm. Today, I lay my anxieties at Your feet. I exchange my panic for Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.