Dr. Michael Easley teaches from Philippians 4:1-7

“Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. 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 comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

God doesn’t tell you to stand firm if you’re already standing firm. Stand firm because God is sovereign.

Prayer for a nonanxious presence:

Resting Controlling Sovereign Father,
Anxiety in the heart of man weighs down,
But a good word makes it glad.
Patient Master, I need Your rest
Worry is sinF
ear is without faith
Anxiety profits nothing
Obsession wastes
Apprehension fritters away
Let me not be deceived in thinking
My frantic heart is good
My compulsiveness is useful
My busyness is spiritual
Please, grant to me a non-anxious presence: in You
I ask You, through Your Spirit to give me a calming presence
In prayer and study
In meetings with people You love
In listening to my family
In business
In conversations with friends
In waiting and being inconvenienced
In serving You
It will not seem as dramatic as a miracle
It will likely go unnoticed by others
But it will be profound change in a restless heart
It will be soothing oil to an open wound known only to You and me.
And when I know I am non-anxious
Give me the cognizance to Thank You for rest
Thank You for Your Spirit’s help
Thank You that You heard this anxious prayer.