September 3, 2024
September 3, 2024
Philippians 4:6-7
Peace
Anytime we are in an election year for the highest office in the country, anxiety and worry takes hold. In times of high anxiety like these, the unknown can often feel overwhelming, casting a shadow of negativity over our thoughts, emotions, and words. Paul offers us a powerful antidote to anxiety: “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 surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Paul’s words remind us that we are not alone in our struggles – this emotional reaction was with the people of his time. And the same God of yesterday, invites us to bring our worries and concerns to Him in prayer. By doing so, we open ourselves to God’s presence and peace – a peace that is beyond our human understanding. God’s peace acts as a guard, protecting our thoughts and emotions and words from the worry, anxiety, and, from saying hurtful and unnecessary to those we disagree with about who should be the next President of the United States.
If you find yourself experiencing moments of anxiety due to the stressors of this election year, remember that God’s presence is constant, presidents are not. God is always with you, offering an avenue to breathe in peace and let go of things out of your control. If you choose to vote, vote, then know that you have done your part voting for the person you believe is the best fit to lead this country.
By focusing on gratitude, especially for the freedom to vote, and presenting your worries and concerns to God, this pivot helps shift your perspective from problems to peace, even during uncertainty.
Pause: Set aside time today to write down your anxieties about the election and present them to God in prayer. Then, list three things in this country you are grateful for. Let this practice of prayer and gratitude help you experience God’s peace in a tangible way as we move closer to November.
Prayer: God of us all, I come to you today with all my anxieties and worries over this presidential election cycle, seeking your peace that goes beyond my human understanding. Help me to trust in your presence, to bring my worries to you in prayer. Fill my heart with gratitude for the blessings and freedoms, I enjoy living in this country, and remind me of your constant grace and peace. May your peace guard my thoughts, emotions, and words, giving me strength and comfort in times of anxiety like these. Amen.
Together,
we are held,
in Christ’s love.
Pastor Kellie Sanford