‘But God’ – two of the best words to hear in a story. God is so good to his children. This can be evidenced through Scripture which is full of ‘but God’ moments.

If you’re in a season where you are waiting on God, encourage your faith by reading through these, some of our favorite, ‘but God’ moments in Scripture.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

– Romans 6:23

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able . . .

– 1 Corinthians 10:13

I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.

– 1 Corinthians 3:6

When they had carried out all that was written about him, they took him down from the cross and laid him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead . . .

– Acts 13:29-30

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

– Matthew 19:26

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

– Psalm 73:26

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

– Genesis 50:20

To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you, LORD my God, brought my life up from the pit.

– Jonah 2:6

You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead.

– Acts 3:15

Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles.

– Acts 7:9-10

For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

– Romans 5:6-8

David stayed in the desert strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not give David into his hands.

– 1 Samuel 23:14

But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and the livestock that were with him in the ark, and he sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded.

– Genesis 8:1

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us,  even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—  and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,  so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

– Ephesians 2:4-7

But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: ‘The “Lord knows those who are his,’ and ‘Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity’.

– 2 Timothy 2:19

What is your favorite ‘but God’ moment to tell others about?

The post 15 But God Bible Verses appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

As Easter approaches, we wanted to reflect on its true meaning and just how important this time of year is for Christians around the world. We’ve turned to well-known Christians from throughout history and modern times to see what they had to say about the importance of Easter. We’ve also thrown in some key Bible verses that are sure to inspire you.

If you’re looking for an Easter wish to share with loved ones in a card, or just some words you can place on your heart, we’re sure you will find it in this list!

We have even created some memes that you can save and share on your social media accounts this Easter. Let us know if you use them by tagging us @christianbook and using #everythingchristian

Do not abandon yourself to despair: We are the Easter people, and Hallelujah is our song.

– Pope John Paul II

He is risen; He is not here.

– Mark 16:6

Jesus didn’t ‘I am finished.’ He said, ‘It is finished.’ Jesus was just getting started.

– Anonymous

We’re the Resurrection people who believe that we can turn back, that people can turn back, that situations can turn around, because we’ve seen that the stone’s been rolled back. Nothing and no one is impossible now because impossible stones have now been rolled away.

– Ann Voskamp

There is no one God won’t use.

– Max Lucado

We live and die; Christ died and lived!

– John Stott

Easter says you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.

– Clarence W. Hall

Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf of springtime.

– Martin Luther

He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces.

– Isaiah 25:8

As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth.

– Job 19:25

Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day.

– 1 Corinthians 15:3-5

According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

– 1 Peter 1:3

Muhammad died, and was buried. His faithful followers take pilgrimages to visit his remains, the same is true of Buddha and other religious leaders. But it is not true of Jesus. You cannot visit His remains; you can only visit His empty grave, because He isn’t there. He Arose!”

– James Wilson

Jesus knew His followers were confused and frightened. They had hit rock bottom. And so He says, ‘Peace be with you.’ This is not simply a salutation; it’s the first application of Easter—peace.

– Robert Leroe

Jesus did not die on the cross just so we could live comfortable, well-adjusted lives. His purpose is far deeper: He wants to make us like himself before he takes us to heaven. This is our greatest privilege, our immediate responsibility and our ultimate destiny.

– Rick Warren

Our old history ends with the cross; our new history begins with the resurrection.

– Watchman Nee

The post 15 Bible Verses and Easter Quotes to Inspire appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

The New Year is here and with it comes so much hope and expectation about what lies ahead. We wanted to take a step back and focus on what matters most… God. So, here are some Bible verses to help you bid farewell to 2020 and hello to 2021.

Happy New Year to you all!

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven

– Ecclesiastes 3:1 [KJV]

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

– Jeremiah 29:11 [NIV]

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

– 2 Corinthians 5:17 [NKJV]

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

– Colossians 3:15 [ESV]

May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.

– Psalm 20:4 [NIV]

Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

– Isaiah 43:19 [KJV]

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.

– Psalm 98:1 [NIV]

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

– Isaiah 40:31 [KJV]

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

– Proverbs 16:9 [ESV]

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

– Lamentations 3:22-23 [NIV]

Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”

– Revelation 21:5 [NKJV]

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

– Romans 12:2 [NIV]

There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

– Proverbs 23:18 [NIV]

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

– Proverbs 3:5-6 [NKJV]

The post 14 Inspiring Bible Verses for the New Year appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

On Friday 17th July 2020, one of the most influential theological voices of the 20th century, James Innell Packer, passed away at the age of 93.

James Innell Packer, better known by many as J.I. Packer, was born in 1926 in Gloucestershire, England. At age seven he suffered a head injury preventing him from sports participation. But after receiving a typewriter as a gift, he became interested in reading and writing. Before his conversion, Packer was influenced by the writings of C.S. Lewis and the King James Bible. Packer received his B.A. from the University of Oxford in 1948 and his M.A. and PhD in 1954. He eventually moved to Vancouver, Canada where he taught at Regent College until the end of his life.

Packer wrote over 40 books for laypeople and academics alike, including the Christian classic, Knowing God, which was published in 1973, and has sold over 1.5 million copies. Other widely read and influential books include Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God and A Quest for Godliness. He served as the General and Theological Editor of the English Standard Version Bible. In 2001, Packer reflected, ‘I find myself suspecting very strongly that this was the most important thing that I have ever done for the Kingdom.’

When asked in 2015 how he wanted to be remembered he said:

‘…I would like to be remembered as a voice – a voice that focused on the authority of the Bible, the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the wonder of his substitutionary sacrifice and atonement for our sins…a voice calling Christian people to holiness and challenging lapses in Christian moral standards…someone who was always courteous in controversy, but without compromise. I ask you to thank God with me for the way that he has led me, and I wish, hope, pray that you will enjoy the same clear leading from him and the same help in doing the tasks that he sets you that I have enjoyed.’

We here at Christianbook offer our condolences and prayers to J.I. Packer’s family.

The post Remembering J.I. Packer, Author of ‘Knowing God’ appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Popular Christian pastor and author, Timothy Keller, recently announced he has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

The prolific author of books such as The Reason for God and The Prodigal Prophet shared the following words with his community on June 7th:

Less than 3 weeks ago I didn’t know I had cancer. Today I’m headed to the National Cancer Institute at the NIH for additional testing before beginning chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer next week back in New York City. 

I feel great and have no symptoms. It was what doctors call an “incidental pickup,” otherwise known as providential intervention. I have terrific human doctors, but most importantly I have the Great Physician himself caring for me. Though we have had times of shock and fear, God has been remarkably present with me through all the many tests, biopsies, and surgery of the past few weeks. 

The team here at Christianbook – like many of you around the world – are praying for Keller and his family at this difficult time. As Keller continues in his post:

If you are willing to pray for me, here are things to pray for:

For God to use medical means or his direct intervention to make the cancer regress to the point of vanishing. 

For Kathy and me, that we use this opportunity to be weaned from the joys of this world and to desire God’s presence above all. 

For my family to be comforted and encouraged. 

For the side effects of treatment to allow me to continue writing and speaking. 

Running the race set before me with joy, because Jesus ran an infinitely harder race, with joy, for me. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

– Tim

The post A Prayer for Pastor Timothy Keller appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

A guest post by Larry McCall author of ‘Grandparenting with Grace’

“I miss you, too.” How many of us grandparents have found ourselves saying that way too often during this coronavirus pandemic? The hugs and kisses and snuggles are beginning to feel like distant memories. Will things ever return to the way they used to be? How can we grandparents be intentionally involved in the lives of our grandkids during this season of social distancing and sheltering in place? Let’s ask God to help us to…

Be intentional!

How might you use available technology for video chats? What a blessing it is to live in this era when most of us have the possibility to connect with our family members through live video calls for free! With an internet connection on both ends, we can call family members one mile or 1,000 miles away or even 10,000 miles away having immediate voice and visual conversations. If social distancing is keeping you from being with your grandchildren physically, you can be intentional in using this means of being in virtual proximity.

Talk to your kids, getting their permission and input on the best times to make video calls to your grandchildren. Maybe you would want to schedule a regular time each week—or even more frequently—to connect with your grandchildren this way. Especially if your grandchildren are younger, keep in mind the importance of discussing with their parents when the best time to call might be to avoid nap and meal times.

Be intentional with your calls. What questions do you want to ask your grandkids? Is there a special project they’ve been working on that you could ask to see? What Scriptural truths do you want to share with them? Would you like to read them a story during your video chat? Work on a Bible memory verse together? Pray for them? There are so many possibilities to strengthen your ties to your grandchildren through technology even if you can’t be together physically at this time.

Be prayerful!

How might you connect with your grandchildren spiritually during this pandemic with all its restrictions? Even if you are separated from your grandkids for months on end, you can still engage with them spiritually. For example, if your grandchild is old enough to read, why not work out a plan in which you and your grandchild are on the same daily Bible reading plan? You might even consider getting two copies of a devotional Bible so you can give one as a gift and keep one for yourself. You can discuss with your grandchild what your plan will be for reading the same daily passages, then interact through emails, texts, or video calls about what you’ve been learning together from God’s Word.

Maybe you could have a regular time each week in which you ask your grandchild for specific prayer requests and share yours with them. Then, having prayed together for those concerns, check later with your grandchild on how the Lord is answering them. It takes intentionality, but these shared spiritual endeavors can have a deep bonding effect on the grandparent-grandchild relationship, even if you are physically separated for a time.

Be generous!

Why not send mail and packages? Remember letters? I mean real, handwritten letters that come in the mail? Children love getting mail with their own names on the envelopes. When you write, make it thoughtfully personal, maybe pointing out how you see God’s grace in your grandchild’s life or writing out a blessing.

Then, there’s packages! What child doesn’t love getting a package in the mail from Grandpa and Grandma? If you do send a package, how about asking your kids to let you know when the package has arrived and is about to be opened? Maybe you can connect via a video call to be there virtually when your grandchild opens up your package. Wouldn’t that be fun?

Be respectful!

Are you able to plan some outdoor visits? Though the restrictions that have come because of the Coronavirus pandemic may vary from country to country or state to state and change with the passing of time, outdoor visits are still possible in most locales. Do you have some grandchildren who live close enough to arrange an outdoor visit? Maybe you can invite your kids and grandkids to come to your backyard or you can travel to theirs. Could it be possible to meet somewhere for a hike or bike ride with your family?

If getting together during this era a social distancing sounds like it might work out, talk ahead of time with your kids about their comfort level. If your kids request no physical contact with the grandchildren when you are together, respectfully honor that. You can always smile and say to your grandkids, “Virtual hugs!” while you do an air embrace and blow kisses. As challenging as this may be for some of us, let us remember that this, too, shall pass in the Lord’s time.

Be fruitful!

When we do have contact with our grandchildren during this less-than-desirable season of social distancing, what attitudes should we be modeling for the coming generations? How does the gospel shape our words and demeanors? Galatians 5:22–23 reminds us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Let’s consider a few of those to prompt our hearts:

• Love: Love moves us to seek the welfare of another person, even if it means sacrificing our own preferences. It’s sad to see how polarizing responses to the imposed restrictions have been. Even sadder are grandparents who insist on their own way—either being on the overly strict side or on the overly open side of the spectrum even if that stubbornness jeopardizes opportunities to impact the grandchildren for the glory of God and their good.
• Joy: It’s true. This world we live in is broken due to sin and its affects. But, our Lord loves us. We need no further proof of his love than the cross and the empty tomb. Life around us changes, but the eternal truth of his love does not. Doesn’t that bring a sweet joy in our lives?
• Peace: Isn’t one of the most important lessons we can learn, “He is God and I am not”? When we’re interacting with our grandkids, whether in the backyard or via a video call or a text message, let’s demonstrate our confidence in our Royal Father. He loves us. He is sovereign. We can rest in him.

And, in the Lord’s wise timing, one day we’ll be able to add to “I miss you, too” the hope-filled phrase, “See you soon!” Let’s pray for that day!

A guest post by Larry McCall author of ‘Grandparenting with Grace’

The post Grandparenting During the Coronavirus appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

So Mother’s Day is looking quite different this year, isn’t it? Rather than making bookings at local restaurants, planning family get-togethers or ordering a bunch of flowers, we’re planning zoom calls and window visits. Coronavirus has certainly changed our approach to Mother’s Day, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find new ways to treat mom!

We’ve come up with a few ideas we think will help you make sure mom still feels special and loved this Mother’s Day…

Electronic Gift Cards

Send mom a gift directly to her inbox with one of our Christianbook electronic Gift Cards! We’ll send it immediately (making it the perfect last minute solution too!) so mom can choose just what she wants to receive this Mother’s Day. We’d say that’s one perfect gift!

Handmade Gifts

If there’s one thing we know about moms, it’s that they LOVE handmade gifts from their kids and grandkids! Children can draw a picture that can take pride of place on the fridge or perhaps a craft project they’ve been working on just for mom. If you want to send a more grown-up gift, box up some of her favorite chocolates, candy or bake her favorite cookies and then drop them at her doorstep… maybe with some hand-picked flowers!

Printable Mother’s Day Cards

Can’t get to the shop to buy a card? Or maybe you just want to send something that’s a little more personal? Download our FREE printable Mother’s Day cards. Simply print them out, color them in and then add a personal note on the inside. Handy hint: add some heavy paper or cardstock to the inside of the card to make it extra strong and durable. 

Write a Letter

With all our modern communication methods, we often forget about the more traditional methods… like writing a letter. Mom will surely appreciate a heartfelt, handwritten note delivered to her door! It’s something she can hold on to and treasure for years to come.

Make A Playlist

Does your mom love listening to music? Make her a playlist of all her favorite tunes! You could even drop some additional songs picked by you for her – maybe you’ll help her discover a new favorite. All you need to do is start a playlist on your music app of choice and then send her the link so she can have a listen. We’re pretty certain she’ll love the sentiment.

Host a Virtual Lunch

Video conferencing apps have been helping us all stay more connected during these times of self-distancing. But who said they have to be reserved for work meetings and quick catch-ups? Why not arrange a virtual lunch with mom? Set a time on Mother’s Day to video call while you’re both eating lunch and chat just like you’ve gone out for a Mother’s Day meal!

Remote Movie Date

Another use for those video conferencing apps like Zoom! Ask mom to choose her favorite movie and then plan to watch the movie together… from your own homes! Just add popcorn and leave the video call running so you can discuss plot points, laugh together, cry together and more. What a beautiful memory it will be to share in years to come!

The post Mother’s Day Ideas: How to Celebrate During Coronavirus appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 10 prayers you can pray during this pandemic. We hope you find this helpful.

We’ve also created Prayer Cards for those of you who want to print these prayers out and keep them at home. There are even some blank prayer cards for you to jot down your own. Click here to download. 

Stay safe!
From your friends at Christianbook

1. Pray for the Sick & Grieving

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. – Isaiah 53:5 [NIV]

2. Pray for Essential Workers

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. – Lamentations 3:22-23 [ESV]

3. Pray for Caregivers & Frontline Medical Personnel

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4 [KJV]

4. Pray for Small Businesses

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. – John 14:27 [NKJV]

5. Pray for Leaders

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, – Psalm 46:1-2 [ESV]

6. Pray for Churches

For this reason also, since the day we heard this, we haven’t stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, – Colossians 1:9 [CSB]

7. Pray for the Virus to be Stopped

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? – 1 Corinthians 15:55 [KJV]

8. Pray for the Financial Needs of Families

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:19 [NIV]

9. Pray for the Emotional Need of those Impacted

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, Until these calamities have passed by. – Psalm 57:1 [NKJV]

10. Pray for People to Come to Know Jesus

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. – John 3:16 [KJV]

Click here to download the COVID-19 Prayer Cards

The post 10 Prayers for COVID-19 appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Guest post by Rev. Christan Causey, an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God.

The condition of our mental and emotional health impacts the way we relate and connect with God. Sometimes, it is not enough to say, Do not panic or be afraid. We believe God is with us always, but sometimes the natural responses happening in our brains and bodies contradict that belief.

We already live in an anxious society. The current world health crisis increases fear and anxiety in many. These types of experiences can create difficulties in managing our mental health or trigger those already treating a diagnosed mental illness. When we are living in such a state of unknown and our daily routines are so impacted, it can create a sense of trauma and stress.

Beyond concern for the illness, this health crisis makes an impact on so many variable factors (i.e. jobs, finances, education, etc.). Through careful intentionality, however, we can prevent long term impact on our mental health.

When faced with possible danger or a threat to our current existence, a natural fear response triggers the amygdala part of our brain creating a series of neurological responses. We must access healthy coping tools to support our ability to emotionally regulate and manage those fear responses.

God cares for the whole of who we are and is present with us. Psalm 57 reminds us, “Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by.” When we hide in our faithful Father, He re-centers our heart and attention upon the One who is unchanging. The One who is steady and will provide for our every need.

God also invites us to take intentional care for our whole body, soul, and spirit – and reminds us He is faithful to empower us (1 Thess. 5.23).

Here are some practical ways you can care for your whole self through this health crisis:

• Manage your intake of information (i.e. trusted resources like CDC, World Health Organization, etc.). Focus use of social media on being encouraged and connecting with friends and family.

• Get exercise every day – even a short walk will make a big difference. Studies show that regular exercise can reduce anxiety and depression by 60%.

• Stay connected with friends and family through texting, phone, video calls, etc. Reach out to a Pastor/Spiritual Leader for prayer and spiritual guidance.

• Read a good book or learn something new. Studies show that learning a new skill or challenging your mind is a great therapeutic tool for depression and anxiety.

• If your routine has changed, create structure for each day.

• Process what you are feeling and experiencing with God and others. Do not avoid or pretend that you are “fine”. Acknowledge the fear, uncertainty, and frustration. God cares deeply. Find a trusted companion that will listen and help you process. Studies show that having someone listen to our cares immediately reduces anxiety and depressive thoughts.

• If you are a parent, talk with your children. See below for links to helpful resources on the best way to discuss COVID-19 with children.
  • Anxiety Conversation Guide for Parents of Preschoolers
  • Anxiety Conversation Guide for Parents of Elementary Schoolers
  • Anxiety Conversation Guide for Parents of Preschoolers (Spanish)
  • Anxiety Conversation Guide for Parents of Elementary Schoolers (Spanish)

• Most importantly, spend additional time in prayer, worship, and meditating on Scripture. Christ will keep you centered and focused on His goodness and faithfulness.

God creates a place of peace and safety, but sometimes our brains and bodies challenge that knowledge. Be encouraged that God is with us always and helps us move our whole self in alignment with the truth of His promises for us. Taking each day as it comes, let’s offer a space of grace for ourselves and others to find God amid the crisis.

Guest post by Rev. Christan Causey, an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God. Christan is currently pursuing her Master’s in Christian Counseling through Regent University. She currently serves the Women’s Ministry Director for the Southern New England Ministry Network. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Brad. They Co-Pastor Essence Place, a new church plant in Hartford, CT. They have three wonderful children. Christan is passionate about the local church and caring for people in a holistic way and desires to see the church communicate Christ’s love and grace in health and excellence. Her greatest passion is to help those that have been broken by life’s difficulty to experience inner transformation and healing, both spiritually and emotionally. You can follow her on Instagram: @christanrachelle.

The post The Importance of Self-Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic appeared first on Christianbook.com Blog.

Many of us are struggling with the worries and frustrations of COVID-19 and the uncertainty it carries with it. But, sometimes all you can do is pray.

Below is an excerpt from Mindscape: What to Think About Instead of Worrying. Author Tim Witmer draws from thirty years of experience in helping worried people apply Scripture to their lives to present a clear, biblical, and deeply pastoral guide to replacing worry with a new way of thinking.

Excerpt from
Mindscape: What to Think About Instead of Worrying by Timothy Witmer

On a recent trip Barb and I visited a beautiful property. One of the features on the grounds was a huge hedge maze consisting of lots of misleading turns and dead ends. It would really be easy to get lost in there. At the maze we visited, as at most similar mazes elsewhere, there was a tall platform overlooking the hedges. From this platform, an overseer could see the whereabouts of anyone in the maze. I’m sure it is there to give direction to someone who might panic as they are trying to find their way out.

“Sometimes we too feel like we’re in a maze and don’t know which way to turn. We fear that if we take a wrong turn, it will lead to a dead end from which we might not be able to escape. When we’re feeling lost and frustrated, the Lord knows our circumstances and is eager to direct us if we’ll just ask him. Prayer puts us in touch with the One who sees the beginning from the end. The One who can give us his perspective on our worries and fears. The One who promises to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). The One on whom we can cast all of our cares because he cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

Our verses from Philippians 4 also give us direction about the characteristics of prayer that smothers worry and how we can implement them:

Pray specifically.

Paul uses different words for “prayer” in verse 6. The first is a general word for prayer, but the second word, “supplication,” refers to an urgent specific plea. This is reinforced when he adds, “let your requests be made known to God.” I’ve heard some folks say that when they pray they don’t ask for anything for themselves. This might sound very selfless and holy, but it is wrong! The prayer Jesus taught his own disciples includes specific personal requests. It begins with praise to our Father in heaven and ends with his kingdom and power and glory; but in the middle supplications Jesus teaches us to ask God to meet our important personal needs. “Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:11–13). Requests for daily provision, forgiveness, and protection are quite personal, and we are urged to bring them before the Lord regularly. This includes things we are prone to worry about. Do not be reluctant to cry out to the Lord about anything and everything.

Pray remembering God’s goodness.

You’ll also notice that Paul tells us to pray “with thanksgiving.” Praying with thanksgiving requires us to remember all of the good things the Lord has done for us and is doing for us now. After all, there are more things in your mindscape than just worry weeds. Worries might be in the foreground at the moment, but there are many other things to which you should draw your attention and for which you should be thankful. This isn’t easy because our natural tendency is to focus on our worries rather than to give thanks. When you are worried, bring your cares to the Lord, but also remember his kindness and goodness to you right now and in the past.

Pray expecting an answer.

Another reason we can pray with thanksgiving is that we can expect an answer. Sometimes the answer might not be what we expect, but the Lord has promised to answer. As many have observed, the answers the Lord gives can be “yes,” “no,” or “not yet.” We might always like a “yes” but the Lord our heavenly Father knows what is best and he will not give us something that isn’t good for us. When I was in college I thought the Lord’s plan for me was to become a famous tuba performer. Yes, that’s right—I said, a tuba performer! He had given me lots of success up to that point and I was a performance major in my college. I decided that I would audition for the United States Marine Band (The President’s Own) in Washington, DC, and the Curtis Institute in Philadelphia. I didn’t make either one. It was “no” and “no” from the Lord. I was disappointed, but in closing those two doors the Lord was directing me elsewhere—toward the ministry.

Pray expecting that God will want your response, too.

As we pray, the Lord might make it clear that there is something that we need to do. For example, if you’re worried about a relationship, God might lead you to have a conversation with the individual with whom you’ve had difficulties. He will certainly impress upon you the need to look for and apply for jobs if you have lost your job. New health challenges will require a change in diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Be ready to be directed toward things you might need to do regarding your situation. This leading will always be according to and consistent with his Word. If you feel that God is calling you to do something that is beyond you—pray about that as well. If he is calling you to do something, he will also give you his Spirit to do it. Pray for the Spirit to help you and direct you so that you can follow Jesus wherever he calls you to go. Fundamentally, Paul reminds us that the Lord will answer, and that we should be prepared for where that answer may lead or what that answer may call us to do.

Prayer leads to peace.

Paul tells us that the result of our prayer is that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Notice that this doesn’t promise that the problems will go away, but that even in the midst of our problems, anxiety can be replaced by peace.

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