#godispeace

Sermon recap

In a society where discord between countries, cultures, marriages, and within seem commonplace, how should Christians react and respond when faced with it?

Scripture Focus Philippians 4

Today Pastor Ric focuses our attention on a very important aspect of the character of God, Peace!

Peace is mentioned 249 times in the bible, so we KNOW it’s super important! Our God is a God of peace.

In Philippians 4:6, the apostle Paul begins by saying, “Do not worry about anything” Now, I don’t know about you, but that seems like a pretty unattainable command to me. I’m so busy running here and there, doing this and that, helping loved ones, and handling situations. I can’t help but lay my head on my pillow at night and worry. Did I do enough, did I do too much? Have I been a good friend, a good daughter, a good spouse? Why did I use that tone with my child today? Why didn’t I handle that situation better at work today? The weight of the world is square on my shoulders. Or is it?

We are given a clear command by God to release our worries into HIS capable, tender, loving hands. We are to loosen our grip and give everything over to Him to handle. When we fail to hand those anxiety-filled, what-if, worst-case scenario thoughts over to God, we become our own god. We are misplacing our faith. We are living in fear of handing over perceived control of our situation, perhaps forgetting our God’s Omnipotence. We decide to dig our heels into our worries (and yes, that IS a decision) and then struggle to discern which way is up. When all we really need to do is look up!

Anxiety robs us of the ability to be grateful and see the blessings of God. Despite what some might believe, we DO have the power to control and eliminate anxiety in our lives because we have the ability to control our thoughts. It might not be easy, and it won’t be instant, you might need help and support from others along the way- but it can be done.

How to Reduce Anxiety, Biblically

Humble yourself- Let God be God. A great way to do this is by reading Psalms to God or rehearsing some of His many attributes.

Be brutally honest with God about what you are struggling with or feeling- you can’t fool Him anyway!

Begin to thank God for the blessings in your life. When we look in the past and thank God for His provision, it gives us confidence that He will provide everything for us in the future.

Believe that you live in the presence of God. (Because you are!)

When we re-align our thoughts, attitude, and perspective with God, we are reminded that it isn’t all about us, it’s all about God! The result of this re-alignment is peace. The kind of peace that only comes from God. Peace of mind knowing that we are chosen, forgiven, and rooted. Peace of mind knowing that we have been given hope and a future. Peace, knowing that we are tenderly loved and that we are not alone. The result of alignment with God’s command; Do not worry, gives us the peace of knowing that God will always make sure all of our needs are met.

When you feel anxiety creeping in, remember that worry is never from God. He already knows the outcome of each situation we will ever encounter. Take a second to align your heart, and mind so that you may choose your next thoughts wisely. God can give us peace when we come to Him with humble, honest hope-filled hearts.