"Be careful for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your request be made unto God," Philippians 4:6
My pastor in New York, Richard Garner, referenced this passage for one of his Sunday services a few years back. He broke it down eliminating the jargon and sang to us, "don't worry about anything, pray about everything." He literally sang it and then had us sing it. We sang that passage for that least 20 minutes as a slow peaceful worship. I will never forget that service.
Over the years my pastor's voice would resonate during the day, "don't worry about anything, pray about everything," I'll hear him sing. It slows me down. Keeps me focused on the positive and not the negative.
My aunt told me just the other day that we should always focus on the positive and not the negative. In other words don't worry.
I sometimes get so caught up thinking of all the things that need to be accomplished during the day that I forget to be thankful. We all need to stop and take a deep breath, and think about how great things are compared to how they could be. I used to pride myself on only focusing on the things I want. Immediately starting a new project as soon as one is completed. I guess I felt like this was the only way to grow - keep moving!
People used to say, but look at how much you've accomplished at such a young age. A lot of people your age are doing so much worse. I remember feeling like, ugh, why would I compare myself to people doing worse off than I am. {I know the attitude is terrible, but this is the truth and this is how we grow} I could have been thankful, it is important to have an even perspective.
I was on twitter (twitter.com/sheepnotes), and @nicolemajka wrote, "Worry is a reverse prayer." I was so excited! Thank God for sending us little reminders just when we need them. This 140 character < message inspired me with its simple dose of inspiration. In so little words Nicole was tapping in on my faith and reminding me that God reigns supreme. Simply consulting him can eliminate all the trouble I cause myself by not being centered on peace.
Philippians 4:7
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
After we learn how to replace worry with prayer, we have to relax knowing that God will give us peace. What does peace mean to you? Does it mean you get what you want or Does it mean we know that whatever happens is the will of God and safe enough for you to be at ease with?
When you read Philippians 4:6-7 what message do you receive?
Rise up this mornin,
Smiled with the risin sun,
Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true
Don't worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right.
Singing: don't worry about a thing,
cause every little thing gonna be all right!
