Stress is a mean and nasty culprit that sneaks into your
life unaware unless your spiritual guard stays activated. As unexpected life
circumstances try to turn your world upside down, the culprit seizes prime opportunities
to sashay itself in; unannounced, unseen, and unwanted.
How do we keep our spiritual guard up against stress, a great
enemy of our soul? For one thing, we must be honest and admit that there is a
difference between being concerned about a matter versus being anxious about
that issue. Being concerned is caring about someone or something and seeking
God, turning to Him for help. Anxiety focuses on the problem, causing worry—stress
that unceasingly torments the mind with a play/replay activity rather than
focusing on and calling on God for help. If left unattended, mounting tensions can
cause a cascade of health problems, some of which are debilitating if left
unchecked. Sadly, stress can also lead to an untimely death.
In chapter four
of his letter to the Philippians, Paul encouraged his readers not to worry;
instead, pray about everything, thanking the Father for who He is and all He
has done (v. 6). In focusing on God and not their problems, they would
experience God’s peace, a peace that the finite mind cannot begin to understand.
His peace would guard their hearts and minds as they lived in Christ Jesus.
Paul’s word of encouragement to the Philippians is for us as
well: do not be worried about anything—not people, things, or situations—instead,
pray about everything, thanking God for His goodness and grace. Are you concerned,
or are you anxious? Do you want God’s peace-watching guard over your heart and
mind as you walk with Him? Trust Him with your “everything” in prayer; thank
Him for being your God, and rest in the promise of His peace.
God's peace is available to all who trust and have faith in Him. Good word for us all.
ReplyDeleteYes, praise God!
DeleteSuch encouraging words in these worrisome times!!! Thank you for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteMy joy and privilege. We can all use encouraging words.
DeleteChris and I have experienced our share of layoffs with him working in the oil industry the past 16 years of our marriage. This most recent one was initially tough to swallow like they all seem to be but there was a peace that overcame me much quicker than before. After crying out to the Lord, my momma and my sweet grandmother I had that peace that Philippians 4:7 speaks about much sooner than I did in the past. Thank you for your encouraging words to continue to seek Him and his peace daily!
ReplyDeleteAs we face and conquer each mountain in life by God's grace, we grow in faith, strength, patience and the peace of God is recognized more readily. God bless you, sweet friend. Praying for your family.
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