Anxiety and the Practice of Asking

Some worries arrive without warning and refuse to leave. A bill, a diagnosis, a silence from someone you love. You can be a person of long faith and still lie awake. Paul, writing to the church at Philippi while in chains, does not pretend otherwise. He gives instead a practice.

He writes: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

Notice what he does not promise. He does not say the trouble will lift, or that you will understand why it came. He says the peace itself will guard you. The word is "guard" — the work of a sentry, someone who keeps watch at a post while those inside rest.

Notice, too, the order. Petition comes wrapped in thanksgiving. This is not gratitude for the hardship. It is gratitude offered alongside the asking, so that the request does not become the whole of your vision.

Today, try the small version. Name one thing you are carrying. Ask plainly. Then, before you rise, name one thing for which you are thankful. Do this once. See whether the sentry comes.