Be Not Anxious

Philippians 4:6

None of us is without cares in this life. There are different things and varying circumstances which can make us anxious—from childhood and into advanced age. The Apostle Paul wants to teach us that we should not bear these anxieties, but place them all upon the Lord, leaving ourselves in His care. In Philippians 4:6, he writes: “Let your requests be made known unto God.”

We have an almighty Father who can help his children in every situation. This Father loves us and he gives whatever will serve for our good even though we do not always understand his dealings with us. Experience shows that people in earthly adversity can often become spiritually in different. It is not those who find their joy in earthly pleasures which have a testimony of the heavenly glory. Apostle John saw a white-robed multitude before the throne which had come out of great tribulation and were at home in heaven.

For this reason, we should have so much confidence in the goodness of God that we should cast all of our concerns, anxieties, and our sorrows upon Him who cares for us. Paul believed that all things worked together for good to them that love the Lord. (Romans 8:28)

Children of God must go through difficult trials and adversities here in life. To a greater or lesser degree, all of us have experienced how suddenly anxieties and difficulties can overtake us. To whom may we turn in these times of need but to our dear heavenly Father? He knows our needs, hears our prayers, and even sees our hidden tears. Let us be comforted for our refuge is in God who loves us so much that he did not spare his only begotten son, but freely delivered him up for us all. How shall he not with him also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:32)

All of our needs are satisfied in Jesus. He died for our sins and rose again for our justification. Comforted, we can come to our heavenly Father in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, letting our requests be made known unto God. Jesus came that we might have life, and that we might have it more abundantly. He alone is worthy to receive all thanks and honor.

By Pastor Kaare Suhr, Elvebakken, Alta, Norway

Translated in 1984 by Pastor Alvin C. Holmgren

Submitted by Pastor Stan