THERE’S ROOM FOR IT IN EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE
“Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. . .. s shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.” (Philippians 4:6 MSG)
Galatia. Ephesus. Philippi. Colosse. Today they can’t be found on a map of the world. They were once important religious and commercial centers that now lie only in ruins and historical records. It is amazing though 19 centuries have passed; they remain a vital part of our faith today – simply because of four letters written by the apostle Paul in the 1st century in which Christ is the focal point. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes to encourage the church to grow in Christlikeness.
Judy was diagnosed with a rare brain condition and required fragile surgery. The risk was high. The venue was a major research hospital with an audience of highly qualified doctors and medical students observing. The staff was scrubbed and ready. The students eager to observe. The surgeon-in-chief asked a final question of the patient: “Do you have any questions?” Judy replied confidently with a question, “May I pray for you?” In the large operating room, as many eyes looked on, she thanked God for the surgeon’s skill and asked for God’s wisdom for him to complete the task. Then she peacefully committed the medical team into the Lord’s hands. How it must have delighted God’s heart as Judy unashamedly gave her cares to Him with thanksgiving. She didn’t ask God to spare her life. She was confident in entrusting herself to the “Great Physician’s” tender, loving care. That day Judy received a new lease on life. And the medical team had a practical lesson in faith in God, and true Christian living.
There is no greater challenge or privilege for us who have received Christ Jesus as Lord in our lives. In the words of Paul, “in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” (Phil. 4:6 KJV) We learn that God’s promise to us is not to simply grant us everything we desire, but “the precious gift of the peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding to preserve our heart and mind through Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:7) Let us make this our life-long challenge.