Be Anxious For Nothing

The apostle Paul understands the lows of life’s trials and shares an encouraging word while he was in prison,

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6–7, NKJV.

During this season of working from home, becoming a homeschool teacher to your children without any training or warning, and a plethora of other issues we are coping with… it can seem like we are imprisioned during this stay-at-home order.

Yesterday was the first time I had been grocery shopping in 3.5 weeks and I could still feel a palpable fear in the atmosphere. It seemed as though people looked at me as the enemy, uncertain if I was carrying a virus. No one would look me in the eyes, and if I’m honest, it was disheartening. I wanted to let people know there is a stubstance they can hold unto—faith for things hoped for (Heb. 11:1). Faith is a substance and it can combat anxiety.

God gives a pattern to release anxiety:

1. Be anxious for nothing.

   This scripture doesn’t only say, “don’t be anxious,” it says, “don’t be anxious about one single thing.” This is easier said than done, but God wants you to know that nothing is out of His control.

   This week, take some time to write down what is causing you anxiety. Then, be intentional about searching for scriptures that combat your fears and begin to quote them, memorize them, and declare them when you are praying. The word of God is sharper than a twoedged sword—meaning it will kill your fears with faith (Hebrews 4:12).

2. But in everything by prayer and supplication.

   Take everything to God in prayer. It doesn’t matter what situation you are going though right now, God cares, and He desires to hear about your fears, anxiety, and questions. Today you may be dealing with COVID-19, but tomorrow it may be something different.

   It’s important to practice this model of prayer, so when something else arises, you’ll be prepared. A supplication is a request you petition to God—He wants to hear about the desires of your heart.

3. With thanksgiving.

   Even if you do not see the answer yet—even if the situation you are facing has not changed—choose to thank God for hearing your prayers and for being in control. Choose to thank God for being all-powerful.

4. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.

   I have learned that perfect peace is not the result of perfect circumstances, a perfect marriage, or a perfect bank account. Perfect peace emanates from a perfect God. The peace that passes all understanding is supernatural. It is like God places you in the eye of the storm, where there is protection in the middle of an unfavorable circumstance.

5. Will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

   You heart and your mind are the two places that the enemy attacks. However, this scripture says that God will guard the most vulnerable places of your being, so you can live above your circumstance and remove your adversary from condemning you.

Whatever is making you hyperventilate or worry should not steal away your peace. You may not feel thankful for this season of life, but you can thank God for being in charge of each season.

Find a place to pray today because God desires for His people to resist the pressures of this world as He offers peace and harmony as an alternative to anxiety.

Will you join me on this journey of being anxious for nothing?

Prayer:

Lord, I’m so thankful I’m not alone during this lonely time of my life. Help me to trust you. Speak peace to my spirit. I cannot live in a state of anxiety, please help me to take everything to You in prayer. Prove to me today that you are the peacemaker and help me keep my heart and mind on You!