A NEW WAVE OF ANXIETY

With the recent senseless and tragic terrorist attack in India, a new wave of anxiety arises in Americans relative to potential attacks on our shores once again. Terrorism is an ever-present danger and kept at bay only by good law enforcement and the protective hand of God.

So if you have become victim of worry, let me offer some words to comfort your heart. Philippians 4 is Paul’s charter on how to avoid anxiety. The teaching is clear, compelling, and direct. Paul says not to worry, but he doesn’t leave you there. He helps you fill the vacuum by directing you toward positive steps: right praying, right thinking, and right action.

Right Praying. Be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (vv. 6-7).

Right Thinking. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things (v. 8).

Right Living. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you (v. 9).

Reflect on God’s truth expressed in those verses, meditate on the Bible—especially the Psalms—and you will find your heart settled by a kind of peace that abides no matter what circumstances or uncertainties come your way.