Philippians 4:6-7, "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."

Think

Today's reading is action-packed! In just two verses, God gives us the antidote for anxiety and worry. It's vital because we often don't trust God as much as we think – especially when we face stressful situations. So, let's take a look at the action steps of this key passage that will help quiet our hearts and minds in this stressful time. "Do not be anxious about anything" This is a command, not an option! Why? Because constant worry is a failure to trust God. Sounds good, but how? "But in every situation," Notice the word "every." This means that God wants to be intimately involved in every aspect of our lives. We are not alone! "By prayer and petition," Prayer is communication with God. Petition is directly asking God to do something. James wrote, "You do not have because you do not ask." If we want God to take away our anxiety, we must remember to ask! "With thanksgiving, present your requests to God" We are to give thanks in all circumstances for all our generous God has given us. Find the bright side. Replace any complaining with thanksgiving! "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding" The peace of God is a byproduct of having peace with God through Christ. He gives us a mind-blowing peace that our finite minds can't even begin to comprehend. "Will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." So, when we pray over all things, ask God to take away worry, give thanks, and seek His peace, He will protect our hearts and minds from the anxiety and worry that can consume us! It comes down to this: Praying right leads to thinking right. And thinking right leads to living right! So, today, right now, take action – and rest in the peace that's yours in Christ!

Act

Want a little more? Read Paul's instructions in verses 8-9: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." You can take action today!

Pray

Dear Lord, Thank You for infiltrating my heart and mind with Your unfathomable peace. I know that You are in control and more powerful than anything causing me to worry. I rest in You! In Jesus' name, Amen.