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Praying for peace

You Do Not Need to Worry

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Verse for Today

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6

Could it really be possible to stop giving in to anxiety and worry? Notice in the verse above that God commands us not to be anxious. That must mean it’s possible to live without anxiety, and it would be unreasonable for Him to command us to do something that isn’t even attainable. Keep in mind that there are two things to understand about this fight:

Experiencing the temptation to worry, and giving in to the anxiety, are two different things.

Temptation isn’t the same thing as sin, and it’s essential to recognize the difference. Situations that lead to anxiety aren’t going to magically disappear once you reach some level of spiritual maturity. Wouldn’t that be nice! You’re likely to experience the onset of anxious thoughts throughout your life repeatedly, and temptations to worry will arrive without giving you prior notice.

God is the one who provides the ability and strength to grow in battling anxiety.

Surviving the assaults of anxiety is not meant to be a solo journey. Putting all your confidence in yourself to just work harder at not being anxious is destined to fail. As a created being, you are prone to weakness, sin, and failure, like all of humanity. God is perfect, but we are not.

Becoming dependent on Him to help you change is the only lasting solution.

Recognizing that God is the one who brings growth doesn’t mean that there’s nothing you need to do. The expression “let go and let God” isn’t a good strategy for overcoming anxiety.

You play a significant role in your spiritual growth.

Developing a habit of communicating with God about your anxiety and asking Him for help is essential. If you’re not already in the habit of praying, start small and ask Him for help. You can start by just saying, “Help!” Even the desire to pray comes from Him. So the moment you begin to feel anxious, turn to God in prayer.

Prayer

Father, thank you so much for Your kind grace and Your mercy. Thank you for bringing me into Your family through the work of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

I cannot overcome these fears and anxieties without your help. Far too often, I rely upon myself instead of casting my anxieties and burdens on You. How often have I forgotten you during my trials and only added to my burdens?

Please forgive me for trying to handle things on my own, which worsens my fears and anxieties. By Your Holy Spirit, help me to deepen my trust in You.

Please let me hear from you. Help me to live every day by Your grace and for Your glory. In Your Son’s matchless name, I pray, amen.

Apply: Bringing It Home

  • Be firm in the Lord (Philippians 4:1)
  • Seek reconciled (Philippians 4:2-3)
  • Rejoice in the Lord (Philippians 4:4)
  • Be gentle (Philippians 4:5)
  • Be prayerful and thankful (Philippians 4:6-7)
  • Focus on right thinking. Be mindful (Philippians 4:8)
  • Be obedient (Philippians 4:9)

Related Readings and Recommended Resources

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About James and Lessons for Life

Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 25 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation.

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