Devotionals

Do Not Be Anxious For Anything

by Michael Edwards 
07/23/25
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“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:6-8, NASB).

How many times have you read those verses? Some of us might say hundreds of times. But the question is, have you diligently applied them in your life? If not, why not?

Today's verses are a divine command, not a suggestion to skim and forget. Reading God’s Word without action is futile. As James 1:22 warns, “But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves” (NASB). If we read Philippians 4:6-8 but don’t live it, we’re fools, deceiving ourselves into thinking knowledge alone suffices. God calls us to act—to reject anxiety, pray fervently, give thanks, and fix our minds on what is godly.

Anxiety can choke our faith—whether it’s fear of financial ruin, broken relationships, or uncertain futures. Paul’s instruction is clear: “Do not be anxious about anything.” This isn’t passive; it demands action. We must choose prayer over worry, pleading with God and offering thanksgiving. I’ve experienced this when I stopped ruminating on a my finances and prayed instead, finding God’s peace guarding my heart.

Paul further commands us to dwell on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and commendable. This isn’t automatic—it’s a deliberate choice to redirect our thoughts from fear to God’s truth. Reading “think about these things” won’t transform us; we must discipline our minds daily to obey.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6, NASB). Don’t just memorize it—do it. James 1:22 reminds us that hearing without doing is self-deception. Actively pray, give thanks, and focus on what is pure. Only by living Philippians 4:6-8 will we experience the peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ.

We must do the Word or we risk just wasting our time. So, if you have been reading your Bible daily but not diligently applying its instructions to your life, why not start today with our verses and apply them until it becomes second nature. Can you imagine walking through any storm in God's peace and power? Diligently put these verses into practice and you will. Just do it. 

Read more New Covenant Bible studies HERE.