A high level anxiety is a good indicator that we’re not in a position of faith. Anxiousness causes us to force things and make rash decisions. It gets us away from following the leading of the Holy Spirit and the peace of God.

The Holy Spirit is a gentleman – He won’t force the lead, but He is always there to guide and direct us. When we allow anxiousness to dominate our minds and emotions, it fuels our flesh resulting in fleshly decisions. Anxiousness screams, making it difficult to hear the voice or leading of The Lord.

Philippians 4:5-7 says,

“Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts, and minds through Christ Jesus.”

No matter what you’re going through, whether eagerly seeking direction or enduring a stressful time, don’t become so anxious that you force things. The opposite of anxiety is certainty, or in other words, faith. Instead of forcing things, make your requests known to God, and through faith, entrust Him to handle the situation.

When we are certain of God’s provision and protection in our lives, we have no place for anxiousness. It is in this position of faith in God’s ability, rather than our own, that we experience His incredible peace.

I believe we find our safeguard against anxiety making its comeback in the next verse. When we use Philippians 4:8 as a filter for our thoughts, we can prevent anxiousness from robbing our peace –

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

If we take these verses to heart, we will be of a sound mind, living in God’s peace and in stride with His perfect timing.