Read: Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 4:4-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Phil. 4:6)
Worrying is something that comes naturally to most of us—we are good at worrying! I worry about all kinds of things—the state of the world and my community, my family, my church, health concerns for me and for friends. I’m sure you have many worries too, some small, some major. Today’s reading is clear—the antidote to all that worry is prayer.
That truth is taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount when he tells his listeners not to worry but instead to observe how God always provides what is necessary for birds and flowers and us. Similarly, Paul instructs his Philippian friends not to be anxious, but to turn to God in prayer and share their worries and their needs (v. 6).
When we commit our concerns to God in prayer, we experience peace. Not just a superficial kind of peace, but a deep peace—a peace that “surpasses all understanding” that comes to us through our relationship with Christ.
I read recently, “Worry is a conversation you have with yourself about things you cannot change. Prayer is a conversation you have with God about things he can change.” God already knows your worries and the deeper issues and concerns underneath them. So when you feel worry approaching, turn to prayer instead. Give your worries to God and see what he does.
As you pray, ask God to change your worries into his peace.
About the Author
Rev. John C. Koedyker is an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America. He has served as a missionary to Japan as well as pastor of several churches in Iowa and Michigan. Until recently he served Muskegon Classis as its Stated Clerk for 18 years. He resides in Grand Haven, Michigan.
