Tuesday, March 18 Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

LET CHRIST HELP YOUR ANXIETY

Growing up in the `70s, I do not recall a lot of discussion about anxiety. You might say you were worried or maybe you were plain “freaking out.” Like many things, though, I imagine it was just something we had not defined.

It is very common now to talk about being anxious, about having anxiety. It can take various forms, whether just feeling uneasy to outright panic and worry, an almost physical reaction. All in all, it sounds much like the same thing we knew back when, but we take it more seriously now. As well we should. A certain amount of anxiety comes with daily life, but too much can be hazardous. Some people pooh-pooh how we now are more respectful of people`s anxiety, but can we go wrong treating others` feelings with respect?

When Paul wrote the words above to the Philippians, he was encouraging them to be strong in the midst of conflicts surrounding the early Christian church. Easy for Paul to say, since he was used to being outspoken. However, Paul wanted them to know they were not alone. In one of his best writings, Paul rallies the followers by writing (4:4-5), “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.” I love how he closes the passage: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding… ” I emphasized all because Christ is with us, in ways we may not understand or believe. It is a very comforting statement.

Anxiety can be very difficult to shake, sometimes near impossible. Remember, though, when things seem their worst, “The Lord is near.”

Dear Lord, thank you for being with us, in ways we might not perceive. Help soothe our anxiety and be able to find peace with you and ourselves. Amen

Ken Hobart

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