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Not a Command, A Promise

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.” – Philippians 4:6-7

What makes you nervous?

There are a lot of things in life that can make us nervous. We may have difficulty in a relationship or just want a relationship. We may struggle financially. Maybe we mess up at work. Then, there’s this pandemic we are in.

There’s a lot that we can be nervous about, but what about this passage from Philippians? How do you read it, as a command or a promise?

Our minds are interesting things. When it comes to Scripture, we tend to see Law more than Gospel. We tend to see commands more than promises. That’s why it’s so important for us to hear the Gospel every week in Church. Even better is to hear/read God’s promises every day. We need the reminder.

When God’s Word Makes Us Nervous
When we read a passage like this, if we read it as Law, it will have the opposite effect of what is intended. Here, God is giving us a promise (Gospel). When we bring our cares and needs to God in prayer, He will give us peace. However, if we read it that I have to not be anxious or, if I’m anxious, I’m sinning. then we will have anything but peace.

So, today, let me share with you some Gospel. Through Jesus Christ, we have peace with God. This peace is not of yourself but from Christ. God wants you to live in that peace and know that He will care for you. Whatever concerns you have, He will care for them. Bring them to Him in prayer, and He will give you a peace that goes beyond your understanding and beyond the situation and He will guard your heart in Christ Jesus.

Heavenly Father,

Fill my mind with Your promises. Remind me every day of them. Today, I have some concerns and I want to bring them to you.

(share any concerns or worries you have with God)

Thank You for hearing me and caring for me. Please give me Your peace.

Amen.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Kurt