What do you do when you are really stressed? Where do you turn when fear is knocking at the door?
For preaching the gospel, the Apostle Paul was in prison in the ancient city of Rome. While there he wrote a letter to the church in Philippi. In that letter he said, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4: 6-7)
Isn’t that amazing? In a Roman prison, Paul emphasized the peace of God. With chains on his arms and legs, he wrote about being thankful. With an uncertain future, he said to be anxious for nothing.
A famous theologian by the name of John Calvin wrote something interesting back in the 16th century: “The love of God, really known, tranquilizes the heart.” (Calvin’s Commentary on I John 4:18)
With all that is going on in our world today, in the midst of a pandemic, our hearts really need some tranquilizing. Perhaps today, by really trusting in God’s love and care we will find some of the peace that the Apostle Paul knew so well. I sure am praying for this. It made a difference for Paul. It could really make a difference for us!