Scripture
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)
Observation
Paul reminds us that even in the midst of situations that can bring on anxiousness; if we flip anxiousness with words that result in the same emotional state such as anxiety and worry, with a perception and words of affirmation of God’s promises through prayer and gratitude, we can cover over stress and worry. The power piece in the scripture is PRAYER with thanksgiving claiming God’s answer for His will and our benefit. These are the keys to peace in the promises of God. Even if God’s answer is not what were/we are hoping for, be it that we are in God’s will, we will have a peace that transcends understanding.
Application
As the enemy would want us to be consumed, depressed and worried about matters that we often have to contend with; matters that we either cause or matters that blind-side us; having the ability to call upon the Lord and believe in his faithfulness to respond and give us a peace even before a matter is resolved, is FREEDOM & PEACE.
I once felt blind-sided by a potentially life changing situation that would have many ramifications on myself and my family. It was a situation that I ultimately had no control over. I couldn’t make it go away, I couldn’t resolve it either, as the resolution and results was not in my hands to handle or decide on. It consumed my thoughts for days and even brought on a sadness and despair. I turned to the Lord in prayer. I was very specific in my prayers. I thanked the Lord Jesus Christ with expectation. The peace that I found was that I did the most important thing that I could do in praying, making my requests known and giving thanks, and that the rest was in God’s hand. The Holy Spirit also prompted me with ideas of what I could do in being positive and proactive in the situation. What seemed to be a deep pit that I felt I had slid into, became a peace and providence of the Lord with His plans for me.
I REJOICE NOW in God’s peace, faithfulness, answered prayer, resolution and even answers and blessings that surpassed my expectations; and a sincere peace that does indeed transcend all understanding...a peace that reignites my heart and mind of how amazing our Lord Jesus Christ is! THANK YOU, JESUS!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I am so grateful. You’ve walked me through what seemed to be so potentially dire. Yet, as I was able to turn to you, you showed me your love, peace and plans for me; plans not to harm me but plans for my future and hope. I am so blessed and thankful to you! You are so good! You are so faithful! You are so amazing! I love you Lord Jesus!
