Peace in uncertain times
May 26, 2009 by Marci
Philippians 4:4-8
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, 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. 9Whatever 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.
Are you fearful? Do you worry? There is an epidemic of fear sweeping across our country. It is fed by the media and our government. This fear is leading to anxiety and panic. It is affecting our health, our children and our spiritual walk. God tells us not to be fearful. He is in control. We need to remind ourselves of that.
Here’s my version of the scripture above:
Rejoice always! Don’t worry about what you can’t control. Be thankful for what you have. God hears our prayers and supplies all our needs. When you realize that God is in control and we are not, the peace of God will guard your heart and mind. Instead of worry and thinking on worldly things think about what is honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, of virtue and praise. Stay full of positive thoughts (peace) to drive away the negative (fear).
As Christians, we have an incredible opportunity in these uncertain times. When the world is running in fear, we can be full of peace, so much so that others will wonder our secret. What a great way to share the hope of Jesus Christ! Don’t get caught up in the mental busyness of worry and fear. Grab a hold of what God is saying to us in the scriptures and have hope and peace – and be willing to share.
For more on related subjects you might want to check out these earlier posts
Comments (3)
“Now then, stand STILL and see this great thing the Lord is about to do before your eyes!” 1 Samuel 12:16
Yes things don’t look good now and I am a queen of worrying, however, God won’t leave us hanging! This verse is a reminder that the Lord STILL has something great in store! So if we hold on to Him and HIS TRUTH, He will take care of the rest!
Good word Marci!
Wait to you read my post today, you’ll probably giggle like I did when I read yours! It kind of goes with it! See, God does use people throught the internet!!
I needed this today…thank you Marci!!
LOVE IT!!! We are doing a series on Philippians 4:8 at church based on the book the 4:8 Principle; very good!