Anxiety is the enemy of a peaceful life. People go to great lengths to get rid of stress; travel ads promise that vacations will sweep you away from it; gums offer to help you sweat it out; and popular magazines suggest ways to lessen it by adjusting schedules or habits. The problem is, no one can adequately shift circumstances to achieve total freedom from heartache, burdens, or trouble. However, we can have unshakeable peace during anxious times. Jesus said to seek peace in Him because He has overcome this troublesome world (John 16:33). The key is to shift our focus from the scary problem onto God, who lovingly provides whatever we need from His limitless resources and power (Ps. 50:10; Rom. 8:11) Serenity can’t be manufactured – it’s a gift from our heavenly Father. The Holy Spirit produces a sense of calm in believers who seek the Lord’s protection against anxiety (Gal. 5:22). Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, “Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The Greek word translated as guard means to “garrison about.” A garrison is a collective term for a body of troops who guard a particular location. God wraps hearts and minds in peace, effectively safeguarding both against all-consuming worry or fear. Ne doesn’t make problems go away – we may still be under pressure or prone to weep, but we’re cushioned against anxiety and surrounded by peace instead. The verses cited today tell us to pray rather than give in to anxiety. The letters of Paul constantly remind us we are in a battle with the stresses and troubles of this world. His words assure us that prayer will keep our minds and hearts garrisoned (surrounded) in peace. Keep trusting in God so that your defenses are strong and anxiety cannot creep in. See you in worship, a gathering in peace of people seeking comfort and strength to face the anxieties that perplex us all. Be blessed.