Philippians 4:6 – Be anxious for nothing…
Anxiety and fear are true enemies of discipleship, for they come about when we take our eyes off the Lord and his grace and begin to focus on the circumstances around us. It is for this reason that Paul exhorts us to constantly get rid of our worries. As they trouble us more and more, our joys will cease, and we will be unable to respond with gentleness toward others. We must not be subject to our fears, but we must oppose them and overcome them in dependence on the Lord.
This does not mean that we will live a carefree life, untroubled by the pain and suffering of others or the injustice brought about by sinful men. Paul himself is a prime example of what it means to “be anxious for nothing,” yet to have great care and concern for others. He watched over those believers and churches under his influence with the care of a nursing mother, and he went to great lengths of personal sacrifice for their benefit. At the same time, he expressed confidence that God would protect them and watch over them, finishing his work by bringing them into full maturity in the faith.
Fear and anxiety are simply a matter of misplaced focus, as Robert Lightner explains: “Joy and gentleness, accompanied with an awareness of Christ’s immanent return, should dispel anxiety.” As we delight in the Lord and wait patiently for his return, our doubts and fears should subside. Today, ask the Lord to help you remain focused on him and his promised return, and to trust his loving and wise hand to provide for every need. Overcome anxiety through faith in Christ.
Scriptures to read: Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 1:3-11