Philippians – Complete Joy
Finding Peace Through Prayer
November 17, 2019
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
The people in Philippi didn’t have weapons, they couldn’t vote, and they had little money.
Some were citizens of Rome; others were slaves with no rights.
How were they supposed to have peace when they seemed so powerless?
They prayed!
The people in Philippi were in constant anxiety because they had been taught that many gods and goddesses could be easily angered toward them.
• Prayer is being thankful and grateful for all that is right in your world.
Prayer is asking for help with anything!
V.6 - “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer …”
If it matters to you, it matters to God.
V.7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding
I want you to imagine to most peaceful place you have ever visited – an isolated mountain trail, the beach at night.
Revelation 4:5-6 NIV
From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God. 6 Also before the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal.
The reason the world cannot give us lasting peace is because the world and people are not really in charge.
When I was young, I never really knew if my parents were having trouble. I knew my dad was in charge and that all would be well. I cannot remember losing any sleep as a child because of worry. Dad oversaw our home, and all would be well. The only burden I had as a child was to obey my parents. That is also the only burden I have today. His yoke is easy, and His burden is light!
Prayer gives us access to a place where God’s in complete control.
Prayer is surrender. Prayer is admitting we’re not in control.
V.7 - will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
“guard” in the Greek means “to set a garrison about.”
Peace becomes our garrison our fort, our military base, when we choose to place our affairs in the hands of God.
