The ARRIVAL ~ A Christmas Devotional - Day 7

Philippians 4:6-7

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.

Here it comes—the anxious feeling that builds until we’re ready to explode with frustration, anger, and fatigue! Philippians 4:6-7 urges us not to be anxious but to turn to God in prayer, bringing every situation to Him with thanksgiving for what we know He will do. This reminder is especially crucial during the busy holiday season when we may feel overwhelmed by preparations, expectations, or personal struggles.

Philippians 4:7 speaks of God’s PEACE, which transcends all understanding. As humans, we often expect PEACE to come when circumstances improve or when we gain control over a situation. However, God’s PEACE goes beyond this limited view. It is not based on our external circumstances and cannot always be explained by logic or human insight. This PEACE, offered by Jesus, guards our hearts and minds—even in times of stress and chaos.

God’s PEACE is not something we can earn or create on our own. It is a gift, a tangible expression of His presence in our lives. This PEACE flows from knowing that God is with us, in control, and working for our good—even when we can’t see how. It anchors our souls, keeping us steady in life’s storms. His PEACE surpasses all understanding.

Pray out your struggles, desires, and anxieties to Him, trusting that He works for our good in His perfect timing. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. This Christmas, as we invite God into our lives, His PEACE—beyond understanding—will surround us, regardless of our circumstances.

As we celebrate the PEACE Jesus brought into the world through His birth, be reminded that true PEACE comes from God's presence in our lives, not our circumstances. Christmas is about the PEACE and hope Jesus brings, and Philippians 4:6-7 teaches us to embrace that PEACE. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done—what a great gift He brings!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for your promise of PEACE. Thank you that no matter the circumstances in my life your presence provides PEACE. Thank you for being an anchor for my soul ~ Amen