BC - Day 342

Reading:  Philippians 1-4


Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6,7


Footnote:  Imagine never being "anxious about anything"!  It seems like an impossibility -- we all have worries on the job, in our homes, at school.  But Paul's advice is to turn our worries into prayers.  Do you want to worry less?  Then pray more!  Whenever you start to worry, stop and pray.


God's peace is different from the world's peace.  True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings.  It comes from knowing that God is in control.  Our citizenship in Christ's kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin.


....for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do everything through him who gives me strength.  Philippians 4:11-13


Footnote:  Paul was content because he could see life from God's point of view.  He focused on what he was supposed to do, not what he felt he should have.  Paul had his priorities straight, and he was grateful for everything God had given him.  Paul had detached himself from the nonessentials so that he could concentrate on the eternal.  Often the desire for more or better possessions is really a longing to fill an empty place in a person's life.  To what are you drawn when you feel empty inside?  How can you find true contentment?  The answer lies in your perspective, your priorities, and your source of power.


JUST KEEP READING........

All footnotes in italics taken from Life Application Study Bible, New International Version.