What happens to you when people tell you, “don’t worry!”? Do you feel like they are minimizing your concern and get a little angry with them? Do you question your trust in God to provide and feel even more impatient? Or does an overwhelming surge of calm come over you because you remember Paul’s words to the Philippians? I can identify with all these options!
Instead of worrying, Paul says we need to be praying. I get that! If you’re like me, you can set the worry aside for a time. But then, if the resolution hasn’t come fast enough, my lack of patience has me taking the worry right back. Can you identify? Why do we do this? Why can’t we just leave our worries at the feet of Jesus?
For me, it comes down to control. I don’t think I’m freakish in my desire to be in control, but when coupled with my impatience, I do sometimes worry. Thankfully, I have also experienced the cleansing of peace that takes place, just like Paul says, when I let go of my worry. Paul says, “you will” experience God’s peace. There are no “maybes” here.
So, what do we say to God? Sometimes my prayers seem selfish because of all the things I ask God to provide. Paul says to simply ask. But Paul also tells us to thank God. We shouldn’t only focus on what we want, but always remember to thank God for the blessings he has already given.
Look around at the scores of blessings you have received just today. You woke up. You have clothes and food. The sun is shining (even if it’s hiding behind a cloud). There is air to breathe. Best of all, God loves you! He is crazy about you! He can’t wait to lavish his blessings on you!
How would you describe the peace God supplies? Paul says it “exceeds anything we can understand,” and I’d have to agree. It’s hard to put into words the transformation we experience when we go from a hot, frazzled mess of worry to feeling calm and peaceful–all in a fraction of a minute. I don’t think I need to “understand” how it happens, just be thankful that it does.
God never promised us a problem-free life with no stress or challenge. But he did promise that he would never leave us, and that we could call upon his name for the power we need to face those less than ideal circumstances. When we live our lives in Christ, God’s peace surrounds us and guards us. When we remember that, what is left to worry about?
What is troubling your heart today? Are you concerned about your finances, your relationships, your future? Take some time to discern where you discontent comes from. You may even want to write down some of the items that come to mind. Give them to God. Ask him with a thankful heart to remove these burdens from you.
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you that I can come to you in prayer and leave my worries at your feet. Give me the strength to let go of those things that are out of my control. You are such a mighty God that has provided for me time and time again. I am beyond grateful for all that you have done for me. Cleanse me from all stress and worry and renew my heart today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
