By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
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."_ - NIV
We live in a fast paced world. The cares of this life drive us, consciously or not, every day. There are so many real and imaginary needs. When one need is met, others pop up. And the cycle keeps repeating itself. Jesus directed several of His teachings warning about the cares of life, and how they can choke our relationship with God, take our peace away, make us unfruitful and even miss His coming. We may not have everything, but we can have God’s peace by having a thankful attitude.
Paul, while reiterating Jesus’ teaching not to worry, encouraged the Philipians not to be anxious about ANYTHING, but to present what would cause anxiety to God in prayer and petition with thanksgiving. In turn, God will give His peace which transcends human understanding to guard and stabilise our hearts and minds in Christ. Anxiety drives away peace and joy in life. It sucks out the energy and unsettles us. When we lose peace, we can’t be as productive and useful as we should be. We become susceptible to many deceptions.
So many troubled minds and hearts abound because they aren’t thankful. When we thankfully appreciate what we have, we shall not be troubled by what others have and we don’t have. Instead of worry, we present our situations and needs to God, thank Him and enjoy the peace He gives us as we wait for the answers. Peace is more important than things. We actually don’t even need some of the things we are craving for, but pursue them just to be like others. Be thankful and have your peace and enjoy everyday life with God. _
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."_
Shalom children of God