Do Not Be Anxious About Anything
Paul's command against anxiety comes with instructions, and the instructions are what make it possible.
Philippians 4:6-7NIV
Philippians 4:6-7. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
The command on its own would be cruel. Nobody stops worrying by being told to. But Paul does not leave it there. He gives an alternative action for every anxious moment: pray, ask, give thanks, tell God what you want. And he attaches a promise. The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
The word guard is military. Philippi had a garrison, and the Philippians knew what it was to have soldiers standing watch at the gate. Paul says the peace of God does that for the heart. Not that anxiety will never approach, but that it will meet a sentry. Today, take the specific thing you are worrying about and do the four things in verse six with it. Then see what stands at the gate.
More in scripture
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Be Still, and Know
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Peace That Stands Guard
When worry crowds in, an old letter offers a different way to carry it.
