Have you been worried about anything lately? I have.

We all struggle with worry and anxiety from time to time. The causes of worry vary—illness, financial struggles, relationship issues, decisions about the future, children/parents. The list goes on.

So how are we to handle those times we are prone to worry?

Paul gives us direction in Philippians 4:6–7.

“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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer is the solution for worry. We pour out our heart to Him and ask Him for wisdom and guidance. Prayer reminds us of our dependence on God. When we turn to Him in prayer, we are acknowledging we need Him and can’t do life on our own apart from Him.

As I was reading Philippians 4:6-7 recently, God showed me some principles about worry and prayer from this passage.

Don’t be anxious about anything.

God knows what He’s doing, and being worried or anxious isn’t going to change things. God’s in control. Instead of worrying, He wants us to trust Him.

Pray about everything.

There is nothing too great or too small to pray about. We are to take everything to Him in prayer, and then trust Him to take care of things in His way and in His timing.

Be thankful. 

We are to give thanks even when we don’t understand what God is doing or it seems as if He’s not answering our prayers. We can thank Him that He has a bigger purpose than we can see, and we can thank Him that He’s got things under control.

Tell God what you want.

Be honest with Him, share what’s on your heart, but leave those things in the open palm of your hand, trusting Him to answer according to His bigger plan and purpose.

Embrace the peace that results from prayer.

God doesn’t promise to answer every prayer the way we want Him to, but He promises peace as we come to Him with our requests and concerns.

Are you worried about something today? Pray. Take it to Him, trust Him, and embrace the peace that comes with knowing God’s in control.

If you’re looking for a Bible study on prayer, check out On Bended Knee: Praying Like Prophets, Warriors, and Kings (Moody).  

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