Anything and Everything

"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 (NIV)

When someone asks, “How are you?” we commonly respond, “I’m good” or "I'm fine." When we say this, we refer to our general well-being, not character or spiritual state. Yet, our response may not be accurate.

Haven't we all been anxious about issues in our lives? At various points in life, we’ve all wondered what to do next. This job or that one? Accept his proposal or not? Leave home or stay? Build or buy? Take out a loan or sacrifice? When Israel's King David didn’t know what to do, he asked God (2 Samuel 2:1). It’s a good example to follow.

Are we truly "fine" if our requests have not been presented to God? There is something about gratefully laying our needs before God that expresses our trust in him. Only he can give us the peace that transcends our understanding. Only God can guard our hearts and minds.

Next time someone asks, "How are you?" We might want to reply, "I am blessed and trusting God." Of course, we could say, "I am at peace."

Dear Father, thank you for caring about our situations. Grant that we may enjoy peace about anything and everything.  This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today about anything and everything,