Contemplative Bible Reading

Philippians 4:6-7 (New International Version)

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Need a guard for your heart and mind? Something to protect you from anxiety, worry, harmful thoughts and feelings? There are days when I could use one.

Well, one is available. That guard is the peace of God. This guard is something that transcends or goes beyond what we can understand. That guard doesn’t cost money. It is ours if we request it in thankful prayer.

Here is another blessing that God offers us simply for the asking. This doesn’t make much sense, but here it is.

God, help me to open my eyes, be thankful for my blessings, and pray. Allow me to move out of the way and accept your guard of peace.