In those times of restlessness and anxiety, where do we turn for relief?

I search for words, and You send these:

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 (Philippians 4:6-7).

Said another way, Your words speak even more directly to my heart:

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life (Philippians 4:6-7 Message).

Thank you for such straightforward words.

Do not be anxious about anything.

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray.

Right, no problem. So, how do I do that? My brain is full, my head is spinning, and my heart is restless.

Please, tell me. Guide me.

Present your requests to God.

Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.

Thank you, God, here are my requests. One by one, I lay them out before You. I praise and thank You for life, health, family and friends, a home, food and clothing, freedom, love, and forgiveness. Please hear my concerns and give me wisdom, direction, protection, good health, joy, love, and forgiveness.

Please, assure me. Guide me.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

It’s incredible what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Thank You.

I believe You.

I will follow You.

About the author: Tom Norvell is the author of “A Norvell Note” — Thoughts and reflections on God, life, people, and living as a follower of Jesus. He has ministered with followers of Jesus for four decades and loves Jesus, his family, and those seeking Jesus, passionately.