His Perfect Peace

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

- Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

From time to time, each of us can fret and worry, anticipating the worst. However, some of us live in a constant state of anxiety, which can cause us to neglect our health, lose sleep, or become depressed — losing hope for better days.

This isn’t what God wants for us. Jesus asked his listeners in Matthew 6:27, “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” Jesus knew that worrying robs us of health, peace, joy, and the good that God desires for us.

When I feel the waves of anxiety rise up in me, I immediately focus on the Lord’s peace and calm. I pour out my heart to God. The Bible gives me comfort and assurance that God is with me and knows my struggles. I am encouraged to keep trusting and hoping in God. How often must I do this? Every day! It is a continual process.

Isaiah 26:3 says, “[God,] you will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” I am resolved to keep steadfast because I want that peace. Don’t we all?

Credit: NIV - Upper Room - Linda M. Scarola