Jesus, in Luke’s Gospel Chapter 12 verses 22-34, tells the disciples that they shouldn’t worry about much, that if the ravens and lilies are cared for, how much more God will care for them (and us). We are encouraged to seek first God’s Kingdom and all else will be added – but how? How can we not worry when the rigors of daily life sometimes create much turmoil and concern! This subject is touched upon in many areas of Scripture, with my personal favorite (on this subject) being Philippians 4:6, which reads: ” Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.” This is not worded as an encouragement – it is a command! Rejoice! Do not be anxious! Great – now I’m anxious about not being anxious. But God (two wonderful words). But God never asks or tells us to do something without supplying a means. If we read onto verses 8-9 ” Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think on such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me (Paul) put into practice, and the God of peace will be with you.” Back in Luke 12:34 ” For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” It’s a prayer issue and a heart issue! When we concentrate on the true, lovely, pure things and we pray until God’s peace fills our heart and mind, then a way will become clear or the issue will lose it’s priority. To try to attain “peace” through any other means, anything other than Christ, is akin to telling Him we don’t need His peace. The peace the world has to offer through humanistic psychology, alcohol, TM, yoga, or any other means ( see the myriad of self-help books available ) is only a copy ( and a poor one, I might add ) of the peace of heaven, the peace that surpasses all human understanding. When anxiety attacks (and it will) where do you reach first? Where is your heart? Not all programs are wrong – but if they attain to replace what Jesus offers – then – Well — Where is your treasure?

In Him,
Rev. Larry A. Sassmann