Give it to God
My life has been relatively easy. But during the tough times I've had to go through, this passage has always brought me strength. Paul's words speak so powerfully to me when he says "Do not be anxious". And he doesn't just leave us to wonder how not to be anxious; he tells us that we should give all our requests, worries, thoughts, and troubles to God and that in turn God will grant us peace. This peace is not passive, however. The passage states that the peace will "guard our hearts and minds in Christ". God's peace is not just a feeling of inner calm; it is an active force, staving off enemies and protecting our hearts and minds from the devil's schemes.
The next part of this passage also gives encouragement and instruction. To help God's Spirit protect our minds with his peace, we are told what we should think about. Too many times after I have sinned, I cannot let go of the thoughts of the sin. I have asked for forgiveness and am truely trying to change my behavior, yet I am still wrapped up in the thoughts of my sins. In that way, I give satan a foothold in my mind. How wonderfully refreshing to find a passage that tells us that if I think about the good things from God, I will be released from the burden of my sinful thoughts. Then, and only then, will satan finally be pushed far from my mind. And the peace and security of God will now reside there.
The next part of this passage also gives encouragement and instruction. To help God's Spirit protect our minds with his peace, we are told what we should think about. Too many times after I have sinned, I cannot let go of the thoughts of the sin. I have asked for forgiveness and am truely trying to change my behavior, yet I am still wrapped up in the thoughts of my sins. In that way, I give satan a foothold in my mind. How wonderfully refreshing to find a passage that tells us that if I think about the good things from God, I will be released from the burden of my sinful thoughts. Then, and only then, will satan finally be pushed far from my mind. And the peace and security of God will now reside there.
