“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV)

To be anxious is to be self-centered, counterproductive worry, not legitimate cares and concerns for the spread of the gospel. Peace here, could mean inner tranquility based on peace of God. Not merely a psychological state of mind. It is the peaceful state of those whose sins are forgiven.

Anxiety and prayer are two great opposing forces in Christian experience. The antidote to anxiety is being thankful to God. The opposite of anxiety, is the tranquility that comes when a Christian commits all his cares to God in prayer. The full extent of God’s love and care are beyond human comprehension. The expression “guard your hearts” is a military concept portraying a standing or a lookout guard. God’s “protective custody” of those who are in Christ Jesus extends to the center of their beings and to their deepest motives.

Therefore, we Christians, must learn not to worry but to pray with thanksgivings. God’s peace will then protect us from unnecessary mental and emotional tension.

Sources:

Keener, Craig S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary. Downers Grove, IL: Intervarsity Press, 1993.

MySword for Android. Riversoft Ministry, 2011-2019.

Olive Tree Bible Software, 1998-2020.

Zondervan NASB Study Bible. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1999.

Published by Pastorbluejeans Unplugged

Friend of a Jewish Carpenter. View all posts by Pastorbluejeans Unplugged