Anxious – November 29, 2022

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

Anxious

You and I live in an anxious culture. There are all kinds of suggestions as to why anxiety seems to be on the rise. Some point to the economy. Others point to a loss in our sense of security. Still, others suggest that social media has produced factors that nurture anxiety, from poor sleeping habits and artificial light to a sense of isolation and the fear of missing out.

Prolonged anxiety can lead to other issues. It can diminish the immune system. It can disrupt the digestive system. It can contribute to muscle tension and chronic pain. Perhaps worst of all, prolonged anxiety is something Satan can use to introduce sinful escapes—drinking too much, eating too much, procrastination, and pornography.

Anxiety, however, is nothing new. Since our fall into sin, there has been more than enough to make people anxious. Take the apostle Paul. When he wrote his letter to the Philippians, Paul was under arrest in Rome. He was waiting—and waiting and waiting—for the Roman Emperor to rule on his case. If someone ever had reason to feel anxious, that person was Paul.

But to the Philippian Christians, Paul says this: Do not be anxious about anything. Anything? Yes, anything. Then, after such a bold statement, Paul gives the godly alternative to anxiety, the godly release. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, . . . with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” And when we do that, Paul promises, the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

And so, it all comes back to Jesus. Not only has the Son of God lived a life of perfect trust on our behalf; not only has our Savior and King suffered and died for all the ways we have sought sinful escapes. He now invites us to open up to him about everything. And as we do, he promises us a peace from him that transcends all understanding.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when I feel anxious, move me to open up to you. Give me your peace. Amen.