Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:6-7

     Dear Jesus, I've memorized this Scripture, taught it, preached it, and prayed it for many struggling friends, even posted it on my refrigerator. But today, however, I'm zealous to lay hold of it for myself. I am anxious, so I need grace to obey this command. I'm thankful you never ask us to pretend and pose, for knowing you is the end to that way of life. And I know you're not asking me to be a stoic, for you are gentle and humble of heart.

     Jesus, it was you who turned the chaos of an unformed world into the beauty of creation. Please do the same with the chaos swirling around me and in me. Replace my restlessness and antsy-ness with order and beauty.

     For the things that grieve me, bring your tear-wiping hand. For the things that offend me, keep me from a critical and selfish spirit. For the things that alarm me, grant me the perspective of heaven and gospel sanity. Please don't let me get bitter.

     For the things over which I have no control, give me a fresh vision of the occupied throne of heaven. For the things I do have control over, grant me wisdom and strength to act accordingly. Please help me steward ambivalence and wariness to your glory. I don't want to waste this moment or these feelings.

     Jesus, I have no reason to doubt either your mercy or your might. You gave your life for us upon the cross and you've risen to make all things new. You're constantly advocating and praying for us, and your prayers will never fail. No one loves us more than you do. I've seen you do astonishing things before. Do astonishing things again. Write stories of grace in big, bold letters.

     Set the peace of God as a sentinel in my heart and mind. Great King of glory and grace, guard and protect my heart from the lies of Satan, the whisperings of gossip, and the cynicism of naysayers. So very Amen I pray, in your triumphant and trustworthy name.