Joy and Peace in the Midst of Trouble – Mike McCormack

Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice!

In the midst of difficulties, in the midst of all situations we as believers are to rejoice. The joy of believers is not based on agreeable circumstances, instead it is based on our relationship with God. We will face trouble in this world, but we should rejoice in the trials we face because God is using those situations to improve our character (James 1:2-4)

Philippians 4:6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

In these verses Paul is urging believers to not worry about their circumstances but commit their problems to God in prayer. They are to trust that He will provide deliverance. Paul’s use of the military term “will guard” implies that there is a battle going on and that our minds need protection. God knows how weak and easily distracted we are and wants to protect us. Also “the peace of God” acts in the same way to protect our minds from external corrupting influence and keeps it focused on God’s truth.

God wants us to be joyful in the midst of our difficulties and not be anxious about anything, so He provides a way for us through prayer. He wants us to come and present our concerns and struggles to Him. Remember as believers we are works in progress, whether we are new to the faith or have been faithful for many years, He continues to work to improve our character. He does not give up on us when we fail. We have put our faith in a trustworthy God.