Be Anxious For Nothing

“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.

When we read the words of Apostle Paul, we may think that he is in a state of bliss as he writes, “Be anxious for nothing.” He was not on a peaceful vacation while writing, “but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving,” he was in prison. Paul understands the lows of life’s trials and in the midst of a dark time in his own life, he extends something far greater than his circumstances, he tells his readers to “guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

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 two-edged 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 xyz, but tomorrow it may be something entirely 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. God will be with you during every season.

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 control of every 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. Today, I speak into the darkness of my situation and proclaim You, God, are the light of my salvation, I will not be afraid. You, Lord, are my peacemaker.

Republished from, “Be Still, Anxious Heart: A 14-Day Devotional,” by Angela Overton on Amazon. https://a.co/d/jbs9CCc