Day 286

Scripture:

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.

– Phil 4:6-7 NIV

Everyone deals with difficulties and anxiety-producing situations. Often we pray for solutions to our problems. God’s promise isn’t that we need to pray diligently or with enough faith for Him to give us the answers that we request. Instead, He tells us first not to worry (exercising trust) but to pray and ask for our desires, with thanksgiving. Then He promises to give us His peace to guard our hearts and our minds. Peace that is greater than our understanding.

Prayer: God, help us to be thankful for all that You have already done in our lives. Help us trust You, present our requests before You and then receive Your incomprehensible peace. Please give us the direction and opportunity to share these truths with others.

Petition: For our federal government leaders to be filled with compassion and justice. To be strengthened and have wisdom for the tasks at hand. For them to be guided by love and free from personal gain and political pressure.