“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God; and the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” Philippians 4:6-8
We all have anxiety now and then, but holding on to anxiety is a problem. To be anxious about nothing is a biblical command, and one that most of us find challenging.
Anxiety is that feeling of worry or uneasiness related to something with an uncertain outcome. Fear of the future is involved. Yet, over 300 times in the Bible, God tells us not to fear. He knows our human tendency to worry about what we cannot control, so provides us with guidance as to how to keep the directive given in Philippians 4:6-8.
Talk to God about everything (pray). No matter what the problem, we are told to take it to prayer and cast all our burdens on the Lord. Unlike people, God does not get overburdened and can handle all your cares. He never tires of listening to you.
Make your requests know (supplication). We have to tell God what it is we need. James 4:2 says we don’t have because we don’t ask. Matthew 21:22 says, “And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” So be bold and tell Him your specific requests.
Thank Him for what he’s already done. Does this mean we thank God for the horrible situation we may be facing? No. It means we thank Him because He’s already done what’s necessary to help us. He died on the cross and rose again. He will supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19), not just some. Give thanks because it’s already done!
Believe God can help you. Notice the scripture says to ask and believe. You can’t ask and then wonder or doubt. You must trust God to be true to His Word. Worry is based in doubt.
Meditate on the positive and true things of God. Verse 8 tells us what kinds of things to meditate upon. What are the true things? The things God has promised us. When we do this, the promise is we will have the peace of God and our hearts and minds will be guarded.
God wants to hear our cares and to reassure us that He loves us. No matter what the anxious circumstance, tell God, work the formula and find His peace.
Biblical prescriptions for anxiety
