Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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 NIV
Pray all the Time
You might be surprised to learn that the daily session of Canada’s parliament begins with prayer. Since 1877, each time our Members of Parliament gather in the House of Commons, they begin with the same prayer, thanking Almighty God for the blessings of living in Canada, lifting up the King and the Governor General and seeking God’s wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in all of their deliberations. The prayer ends, asking the Lord to guide them in making good laws and wise decisions.
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What a gift prayer is. No matter what is going on in my life, no matter what opposition I’m facing, or loneliness or fear, no matter what joy, or blessing I’m experiencing, I can pray. That is the heart of a favourite promise in God’s Word. Philippians 4:6-7 says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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.” What a blessing to be able to pray, at any time and in any place. When anxiety comes our way – pray. When fear comes, petition God. When our peace has been stolen, we can come before God and His peace will guard our hearts and minds. There is one caveat – we are called to thanksgiving. Whenever you pray, don’t forget to thank God for all His blessings. As you pray, focusing on reasons for which to be thankful, God will fill your hearts with a peace that only comes from Him. Prayer, petition, thanksgiving – God’s spiritual medicine to battle anxiety. Take time today to pray – and wait for His peace.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley