December 25, 2011 - Pastor Doug Caister
Philippians 4:4-7
Click here to listen to this message
(Right-click link and select "Save as..." to download the audio)
Isn't it great how blessed we are in our relationships with Jesus? One great benefit of knowing Christ is we can cast all of our concerns on Him. I wonder, who do you talk to when you are hurting or upset or stressed-out about something?
Verses 4-5 tell us to delight in our relationship with Jesus. He is coming soon ("the Lord is near") and all of the earthly trouble will be gone. May I remind you that Paul wrote this from prison.
In the remaining verses, God says don't stress over stuff or get upset when you are hurting because we can take our concerns (all of them!) to Jesus. God promises that such a relief will come that it's difficult to explain and that peace will guard your thoughts and your emotions ("heart").
The word "guard" is the picture of battle-ready soldiers guarding a fortress designed to protect your heart and your mind.
God wants you to talk to Him about what's troubling you. How? By giving Him 3 gifts and we get one big one in return.
- Prayer - The original Greek word is "proseuche" which broken down means "draw near" combined with "surrender in humility." Its the posture of one who is lesser coming to one who is greater. Prayer is drawing near to God in humility. James 4.8 says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." God likes it when we come near to Him.
- Petition - This is a specific request that has a touch of emotion. Its something that is so important to you that it stirs your emotions. Sometimes the word "plead" is used. God wants you to talk about everything, especially what's important to you.
- Thanksgiving - Its when you thank God for the way He has helped you in the past. Its not being selfish, but humble and grateful for how nice God has been, especially when you know you have not been obedient to His law of love.
The Bible says that when you offer these presents to God, then you will experience God's peace. If you know American sign language, you can remind yourself of how God gives His peace. Its a swiping of your hands and then extending your palms out like over smooth water. Its like God says, "You wipe your hands of this and relax; I got it from here."
Who do you talk to when you are hurting or upset about something? Anxiety and worry bring no peace, but prayer and petition with thanksgiving will. Lets pray.
Further Reading:
- Philippians 4:4-7
- James 4:8