Read Philippians 4:4-7. Now read it again. And this time out loud.
In the midst of this encouraging passage, God (through Paul) gives a command. He tells us to rejoice and to not be anxious. Choosing to rejoice in challenging circumstances is difficult, yet the alternative can be anxiety. All too often we profess faith in our God’s love and power, but secretly wonder if He will really come through in the end. We begin to worry, focusing on our problems from our own vantage point. So why does Paul admonish us not to be anxious? Because anxiety is often rooted in self-centeredness.
What is causing you anxiety? Is it possible that you are focusing too much on the self? Step back from the situation. Pause. What aspect of God’s character do you need to gaze upon and express adoration of? His provision? His sovereignty? His love? Gazing upon the Lord changes our vantage point. The more we praise and rejoice, the less concerned we are about the surrounding circumstances. We’ve been with the Lord and are reminded that He is able. Thanksgiving through prayer is the antidote to worry.
carolss said...
1Beautiful…
12/11/09 5:31 PM | Comment Link
joshua said...
2Thanks Kristin. That was really peace envoking.
12/12/09 8:27 AM | Comment Link