Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

What’s the solution for someone whose gut is in knots? Alcohol? Valium? A vacation at the beach? A weekend full of amusements and fun?

Such common remedies might offer temporary relief from stress, but the long-term, ongoing answer for anxiety is simple prayer. Pouring out your heart to God. Honestly sharing your needs with him.

It’s not like you’re telling God things he doesn’t know. And you’re not guaranteed everything you ask for. But what you do get when you pray is God’s ear and his heart. And if you linger long enough in his presence to get his perspective, you’ll find his perfect peace (see Isaiah 26:3).

Prayer isn’t magic. But when you talk to God honestly and in simple faith, it’s pretty close.

GOD’S PROMISE TO ME:

• If you pray about your concerns, I will give you my peace.

• My peace is too wonderful for you to comprehend.

• My peace will guard your heart and mind.

MY PRAYER TO GOD:

God, keep me praying instead of worrying. You promise peace—wonderful, supernatural peace—to those who look to you. In an anxious world, this is a blessed promise—the promise of peace. Amen.