Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Paul faced many storms in his ministry life, both metaphorical and physical. People attacked him; the system wanted to snuff him out, and even nature came against him as he strived to fulfill the will of God.
What did Paul do to remain stable and committed to his call amid these challenges? Why didn’t he suffer from anxiety, depression, or have a heart attack from the tremendous stress? The answer to those questions lies in Philippians 4:6-7, and these verses show us how to operate in peace regardless of what is happening. Paul didn’t break down because he learned how to break through in prayer with thanksgiving.
This kind of prayer begins with an exchange. Instead of worrying about something, pray with thanksgiving. The combination of the two is vitally important. Prayer isn't powerful when you are focused on a stressful situation or worry. Instead, it usually ends up as a complaint session. Instead of moaning and groaning, shift your focus to gratitude about what God has done and be thankful for what God plans to do. That will change your focus from the power of the problems to the faithfulness of our God.
We call this kind of prayer the prayer of commitment. It says, “I commit my worry to You, and I choose to be thankful amid a chaotic moment.”
Casting your cares on Him and expecting His power to show up does something supernatural. It will give you a peace that you or anyone else can’t understand. The peace of Christ will guard your mind from breaking and your heart from exploding. You will not break down with anxiety, depression, or worry. Instead, you will break through as the supernatural peace gives you the strength to come out on the other side victoriously.
Practical Application
When you are worried or full of fear and confusion, take five minutes and thank God. Don’t ask God anything yet. Don’t cry about how bad the problem is; thank Him for everything you can think of.
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