LIFE SCRIPTS

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

This exhortation to the Philippians was filled with hope. Though the Philippians church had it’s fair share of challenges, Paul sought to instill hope in them. A hope that comes from having a robust prayer life. A life that doesn’t ignore the problems around us but one that leads us to lift them before God. Everyday problems and cares give rise to anxiety and worries. We wake up some days feeling shortchanged by our jobs; we get disappointed by close friends; we get ripped off in a deal or business; we lose a loved one; at times we struggle in marriage…at times life seems to throw bitter things at us but what do we do? Who do we turn to? Paul reminds us that in every situation, by prayer, petition with thanksgiving, to let our requests be known by God. God is beckoning us to cast our burdens to Him. He’s desiring that we go to Him with our burdens and find rest. Prayer helps us confide in God. It helps us go to Him the way we are, in our tears and struggles and find solace and comfort in Him. Because as we do it, His peace guards our hearts. Every time I present disturbing situations before God, I feel a sense of relief. Yes… I might not have a solution…infact I might not even be close to it but God’s peace assures me that He’s in control…that He’s at work. But as we seek God to meet us at our points of need, we must also be thankful for what He’s already done for us. Thanksgiving is not an option in prayer…it’s part of prayer. Ever been thankful to anyone for doing good to you? The feeling we get is that of joy. Both parties grow fond of each other. They are drawn towards each other because of this gesture. Imagine always being thankful to God? Yes, situations are bad…we may be at rock bottom…but it could have been worse and the fact that it isn’t calls for us to be thankful to Him. Thanksgiving opens doors we seldom think of. It’s a gesture acknowledging God’s goodness in the midst of struggles and pain. But it also helps us see the things God has accomplished for us reminding us that He’ll be faithful even in our current situation. Thanksgiving reminds us of God’s goodness even in the midst of our life struggles.