"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

Recent years have seen much turmoil like Covid-19 and other struggles. Whatever your situation, there is much to feel anxious about. Verses 6 and 7 are like a doctor’s note, prescribing the antidote to anxiety. On one level the prescription is simple: bring everything without exception to God in prayer. The words ‘anything’ and ‘in every situation’ are truly all-encompassing. When we put them into practice, God’s peace can guard the castle of our heart, standing sentinel on the walls, stopping worries from breaking through. What further encouragement do we need?

Another way we battle our fears is to concentrate our attention on all that is ‘excellent’ and ‘praiseworthy’ (verse eight). It might be the innate beauty of creation, such as a wonderful view or exquisite birdsong, or it could be something lovely which humans, with all their God-given potential, have produced, such as a well- written book or great music. Ultimately, however, we are to think of Jesus and rejoice in him (v 4), for truth, nobility, and all the other qualities mentioned in verses 8 and 9 are found supremely in him. With this change of focus we find that our worries are kept at bay; there is simply no room left for them, for God’s peace and joy now reign supreme. This is the ideal of course! Nearly all of us struggle with fears at some time, so don’t feel discouraged. Nevertheless, God has given us a wonderful prescription for anxiety. With his help, let’s follow the remedy.

CLOSING PRAYER

Holy Spirit, help me to see myself through the lens of your holiness. Show me where I need to be more like my Savior, Jesus.

(from Encounter with God)