PRAYING FOR PEACE and FREEDOM from WORRY – Pray October Day 3 –

PRAY OCTOBER

31 Days of Scripture, Reflections, and Prayers to bring us closer to the move of God in our midst.

Prepared by Pastor Calvin Cook

Day 3: Prayer for Peace

Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Peace is always something that I am praying for; peace in the world and community, peace in my home and life, a peace that passes all understanding, peace for my soul. But when I leave that quiet place of prayer the peace that I experienced there is invaded by everything that does not bring peace to my life.

One of those things that invades is that tool of satan called worry! Worry is a constant battle, whether you feel inclined to believe it or not. We worry about our future, our relationships, finances, health, and the world around us. It creeps in and often takes control, bringing stress, anxiety, and legion of other things that attack the peace that we are desperately crying out for. As I have said in the past, there are those who are worrying about what they will worry about next.  I admit I to have been in that place a time or two.

Today’s scripture from Philippians 4:6-7 really does give us direction for dealing with this very real human experience. As worry weighs heavy, pulling us into fear, doubt, and stress it begins to affect us and those around us in other ways.  These are the moments we need to surrender in prayer to God those things which we can not do on our own, that will show more strength than weakness. We can’t control the uncontrollable, but God can!

Philippians 4:6 doesn’t just tell us to stop worrying; it shows us what to do instead: “In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” This then will be an act even an offering of faith and surrender.

What are you worried about today? Is it your job, your family, your future, or your health? Take a moment to bring those concerns to God. Release them into His capable hands through prayer and thank God for how He has cared for you in the past.

Worry is so prevalent – be reminded of God’s empowering grace to change you and make you whole and holy to be released of worry. Remember, worry only brings stress, exhaustion, and fear. But God’s peace brings rest, assurance, and calm. Today, exchange your worry for God’s peace. He is waiting to carry your burdens and guard your heart.

Prayer: Lord, I bring my worries to You. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. In Jesus name we are praying for Peace – Amen