The Bible is very practical. God knows one of the biggest things we struggle with is worry or anxiety about the future. The Apostle Paul had more to potentially worry about than most people; financial problems, opposition that took the form of torture and attempted murder, rejection by scores of people, some close to him and the oversight of the fledgling church with all of its problems.

How did God guide HIM? Here is The four point remedy Paul laid out for the Philippians that I believe God gave to Paul, writing from a Roman dungeon!

1. God’s presence. Philippians 4::1-5 “The Lord is at hand. Do not be anxious about anything”. He is right there beside you! He will never abandon you!

2. God’s peace. ” Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. Phil. 4:6,7 That word guard is literally the word “garrison”, like a guard of soldiers , I have found it true that giving thanks and worry are incompatible with each other.

3. God’s power (Phil. 4:10-13) I especially want to call your attention to verse 13: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me”. I like the way the NLT renders it, ” I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me everything I need”. Did you catch the word NEED? He has promised to take care of my needs. Does He keep His Word? All I have to do is look back on my life.

4. God’s provision. ( Phil. 4:14-23-). A key verse there is verse 19, ” My God will supply EVERY need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus”. How much is that? It’s infinite! Your checkbook might be low but God’s never is! Keep in mind Paul wrote this from a Roman dungeon! I have been there , the only food he got had to be dropped down into the dungeon. But he said he was full! Who did it? God did!

So the next time you are inclined to worry think about Paul and the 4 point remedy God gave him to share with you; God’s presence, God’s peace, God’s power and God’s provision. You can start by praising Him and I bet you won’t be worrying for long beloved!

Pastor Terry