The Recipe for Peace
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
Anxiety. An emotion many struggle with and yet one which Scripture warns against. I think of Peter walking on the water. When his eyes were fixed on Jesus, he had no fear, but when he looked down, his faith dissipated. In the above Scripture, Paul instructs us to present our requests to God while we give Him thanks. He doesn’t say we will then receive what we ask for, but he does promise that God will give us peace beyond understanding.
I don’t understand why people get mad at God when their prayers are not answered. Even when God does not give me what I want, I’ve experienced peace that lets me know that, even though His ways are not my ways, He is still there to provide care and comfort.
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. ~Philippians 4:8-9
Years ago, I found myself watching local news on a nightly basis. Before long, I was afraid to be outside at night. The things I was seeing and hearing did not cultivate peace, so I stopped watching, and I still don’t watch news unless I’m with someone who is doing so.
If you find yourself fearful and anxious, consider what you are focusing on. Do your thoughts line up with Philippians 4:8, or are they filled with violence, horror, circumstances, and other negative things? If the latter, it’s not too late to change. Begin now to look to Jesus, praising Him for how good He is and what He is doing. Then ask Him to fill you with His peace that passes understanding.
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