And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (ESV)
Do fearful thoughts seem to plague your mind continually?
Let me ask you this: how many hours a day do you spend watching news coverage of current world events? How much time do you spend absorbing online narratives about social unrest, violence, death tolls and who’s predicting what?
You see, it’s one thing to be informed; it’s another to be immersed. It’s one thing to be a cucumber and another to be a pickle. A cucumber has to sit immersed in sour brine day and night for pickling to take place. In the same way, many people’s hearts and minds become pickled in fear and anxiety because of what they focus on.
Maybe you think, “Well, there’s lots to be worried about in today’s world!” In the wake of financial upheaval, political uncertainty, job loss or health concerns, we can become so focused on our problems that we forget we can experience God’s peace amid any circumstances. After all, fear comes from the enemy’s kingdom, but God’s Kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy. (See Romans 14:17.)
God’s peace “surpasses all understanding” which means the world knows nothing like it. So, how do we experience it? Philippians 4:6 tells us not to worry but to pray about everything. Why? Because the more time we spend soaking in God’s presence, His Word, and His principles the less power fear holds over us. Instead, God’s peace begins to rise up and reign over our hearts and minds.
Immerse yourself in God’s Word and His promises. Speak them over your life daily, because God’s peace blows fear out of the water!