Written by: Alyssa Van Vessem
What if I told you there was a formula for peace with God? Yesterday, Bob focused on Philippians 4:7. Just back up one verse, and you get the rest of the story.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. – Philippians 4:6
Prayer + supplication + thanksgiving = peace
What is supplication in prayer? First, supplication means to request or ask for something. It is coming to God open and with conviction. How does this combine with gratitude? Earnest requests must be accompanied by a mindset of being thankful for God’s good and perfect plan and not your own preconceived notions of what YOU think God should do. After all, as Bob says, God is not a genie in a bottle. You see, following God’s plan for your life brings a freedom that is peace.
Does this formula actually work?
I believe that it does! Let me describe it this way. Based on yesterday’s blog post, we came to the conclusion that pursuing peace in our human and broken state can never be attained. However, we are to strive for God’s peace through practicing these things:
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me (God)” - Philippians 4:9
Whenever we fix our eyes on Jesus to look more like Him daily, Scripture says, “the God of peace shall be with you” (Philippians 4:9). So, the answer is an astounding YES! This formula does work because the Bible says so.
How can this formula be applied to my finances?
1. Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) - God desires an intimate relationship with you that requires communication! Especially when it comes to your finances. Talk to God about it.
2. Supplication (Ephesians 6:18-19) - When you pray in the Spirit, Scripture promises that the “mystery of the gospel” will be made known. Christ will make His plans known to you according to His timing.
3. Thanksgiving (Psalm 100:4) - If you read anything, read this! Giving gratitude to God is a sure way into His presence. And in His presence, there is peace.
There are risks today, and there will be risks tomorrow that can create doubt in your mind. Just remember that you have direct access to the God of all peace and comfort.
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