Philippians 4:6-7, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Think

There was once a young man eager to grow in his faith. He got a piece of paper and made a list of all the things he would give up and the things he would start doing for God. He was excited. He took that list to the church and put it on the altar. He thought he'd be overcome with joy, but instead, he felt empty. He then went home and started adding even more to his list of what he would and wouldn't do. As he placed the longer list on the altar, he still felt nothing. So, he decided to approach his pastor and ask for help. The pastor said, "Take a blank sheet of paper. Sign your name at the bottom and put that on the altar." The young man did, and peace immediately flooded his heart.

Maybe you're like that young man, searching for peace. You've focused heavily on starting and stopping the things you feel will bring change. And, now, you're struggling to keep up with so many dos and don'ts.

However, like the story we read, we can only achieve real peace by submitting our wants, desires, and future to God. When we surrender all that we are to become all He wants us to be, we experience the peace of God that transcends our understanding. We realize that it's not about what we can do for Him, but about what He can do in and through us.

Amid all the anxiety, unrest, and frustration in our world today, guard your heart and mind through Christ by focusing on His unfailing faithfulness, power, and love.

Act

What are some things you've been trying to control for too long? Maybe it's a situation at work or a relationship you've lost sleep over. Whatever it is, surrender it to God. Let today be the day that you let Him work in your life in the way He chooses, without push back.

Pray

Dear God, Thank You for Your unexplainable peace that transcends all understanding. You give my heart and mind rest when I realize that I cannot control my future; only You can. I ask that You continue to help me grow by daily surrendering my anxieties, dreams, and life to You. Amen.