TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.Philippians 4:6–7
Read: Philippians 4:6–7
Listen: Philippians 4
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Pastor Jeff Manion says sometimes we want the peace without the petition. Talking with God isn’t a one-time event. We may not fully understand the mystery of prayer, but the Creator God of the universe invites us into daily conversation with him. What a gift! The Apostle Paul teaches Jesus-followers to turn to God in all situations. Paul’s teaching models the phases of lament and provides another example for us to follow.
Bring every situation to God. Every day, in every circumstance, we can bring what bothers and burdens us to God. Don’t hold back emotion but channel all our anguish to him.
Present requests to God. Ask God to move in specific ways through these situations. Start a conversation with God and keep it going throughout the day. We don’t need to limit our prayers to just Chair Time but can talk to him anytime.
Release anxiety by remembering his faithfulness with thanksgiving. Recall the ways you’ve seen God work in the past, recognize his unchanging character in the present and remember your future hope rests in him.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Put all the pieces of your personal prayer of lament together. Post it where you’ll see it often. Share your prayer with family, trusted friends or your small group. “God, how long_________? I need you to help me with ____________. I trust you because________________. Thank you for being so good to me. Amen.”
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is Mark 12.
