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

Observation:
This is a verse I have in my armor and put on everyday. Instead of being anxious, present your requests to God with prayer and thanksgiving. And his peace will guard you. Give it over to him and he will take care of it. Don’t worry. Let go. Let God.

Application:
Although I know this verse well, I don’t often do it. I hold things too tight and my need to control trumps my desire to give it over to God. The fact that Paul says with prayer and petition means to me that it’s a difficult task. I appreciate that he says it that way, because I think it is difficult. I want to hold on and do it myself. I need to release and give it to God. That is the only way I will find peace. And God’s peace transcends any earthly peace. It is so great that it is beyond understanding.

Prayer:
God, forgive me for my controlling ways. Forgive me for holding too tightly to the things of this world. Please help me to stop being anxious about the things in my life. But, rather to give it all over to you, knowing that you can take care of it far better than I can. God, please make any part of me that is unwilling willing to give everything in my life over to you for you to lead, run, manage, take care of, according to your good will and purpose. And please Lord, give me the peace that only you can provide - the peace that I do not deserve and that I will never understand. Thank you, Lord. Amen.