When was the last time that you were able to “not worry about anything?” Yet those are the words of Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 4:6 NLT) and as we all know, that’s something easier said than done. To worry means to be “anxious” or “troubled with cares.” Everyone has to deal with worry or anxiety on some level and at some point in their life.
Even Jesus told the disciples “in this world you will have trouble” so it should be no surprise to us that we have to deal with problems, but problems don’t have to become “worries” and overwhelming cares in our life. Jesus went on to say “but take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) What a promise from God! Jesus has overcome the world and we need not worry about any of the trouble we will face. Even Paul followed up his admonition to “not worry about anything” with “but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6) When we spend all our time, energy, and resources worrying about things we cannot control, it will make us ineffective in most areas of our life, especially spiritually. But if we will cast those worries and cares upon Jesus through prayer and petition, with a thankful heart, God will give us a “divine” peace that passes all human understanding. It is this peace that will keep our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).
Don’t allow worry to overwhelm your day. But with prayer and petition, and thanksgiving in your heart present your requests (worry and cares) to God. A good rule of thumb is to pray more and worry less. What worries do you need to give to God today? He’s ready to take them, are you ready to release them?
This is a profound teaching. Very relevant and needful for us all.