Prayer and Worry

Read: Philippians 4:6–7
Listen: Philippians 4

This year in Beyond the Weekend, journey through different biblical models of prayer—one each month. April’s focus is Petition: bringing our needs before God.

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 4:6–7

Paul writes from prison to believers in Philippi—a church that he started on his second missionary journey (see Acts 16). Paul reminds them about the identity of Jesus and what it means to find their joy in him. Writing from his own experience, Paul counsels them to look to Christ in all things and walk in a manner worthy of the gospel (Philippians 1:27). Such a way of life implies always praying, especially when faced with anxious or troubling thoughts. As Paul has modeled in prison, these believers are to turn their troubles and trials into prayer, trusting that the God of all peace will guard their hearts and minds.

Much like the believers in Philippi, we too need to turn our troubles into prayers. The basic counsel of Scripture on the matter is to worry less and pray more. Such counsel does not come from a cold-hearted God who dismisses our problems but from one who cares deeply about us and wants to meet us in our difficulties. We can pray, trusting that God is working, able, and willing to carry us through any situation.

TODAY: Turn your anxieties into prayers. Be assured that you have a God who loves you and wants to hear from you. Reflect upon what has been troubling your heart, and then turn your cares and concerns over to God in prayer. As you do, be assured that his peace will guard your heart and mind.