Continuing with the Fourth chapter of Philippians Paul addresses the issue that holds us back from owning a rejoicing spirit.
Anxiety.
You know the word, but just to be clear…
Unease, apprehension, disquiet, fretfulness, angst.
The thesaurus uses yet another word…Fear.
Yes, fear is the culprit.
Under those churning emotions lies fear. What else causes us to feel unsettled and anxious, but fear?
Fear that something will happen.
Fear that something won’t happen.
Fear of disappointment.
Fear of failure.
What is the antidote to this fear?
Prayer.
Bring it all to Him. All, as in EVERYTHING!
That is what verse six says, but that is not all it says,
Now how do we do that when what we are praying about has caused us so much angst?
I can tell you how I do it.
I remember Who it is that I am praying to.
The King of Kings and the LORD of lords.
The One who loves me and delights in working all things out for good. All I have to do is look back over my life thus far and I am reminded of this fact!
It is basically being still and knowing He is God.
With the antidote comes a peace that only God can give. It is the peace that will protect our hearts and minds.
Protect them from that thief Fear.
It isn't something we can wrap our minds around, but that is okay. We don't need to understand; we just need to receive it!
It is the antidote to whatever is plaguing you!
What an amazing Savior we have!
Anxiety.
You know the word, but just to be clear…
Unease, apprehension, disquiet, fretfulness, angst.
The thesaurus uses yet another word…Fear.
Yes, fear is the culprit.
Under those churning emotions lies fear. What else causes us to feel unsettled and anxious, but fear?
Fear that something will happen.
Fear that something won’t happen.
Fear of disappointment.
Fear of failure.
What is the antidote to this fear?
Prayer.
Bring it all to Him. All, as in EVERYTHING!
That is what verse six says, but that is not all it says,
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”Did you notice what our attitude is to be as we pray? One of thanksgiving. An attitude of gratitude!
Now how do we do that when what we are praying about has caused us so much angst?
I can tell you how I do it.
I remember Who it is that I am praying to.
The King of Kings and the LORD of lords.
The One who loves me and delights in working all things out for good. All I have to do is look back over my life thus far and I am reminded of this fact!
It is basically being still and knowing He is God.
With the antidote comes a peace that only God can give. It is the peace that will protect our hearts and minds.
Protect them from that thief Fear.
It isn't something we can wrap our minds around, but that is okay. We don't need to understand; we just need to receive it!
It is the antidote to whatever is plaguing you!
What an amazing Savior we have!
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