God Hears You When You Call to Him in Faith

Philippians 4:6, 7 give us a sure formula to be heard by God and receive the subject of our petitions, while all the while resting in His peace.  It states:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.

Today, I want to discuss this formula with you so that you might have a better understanding of how to use it.                   

Lets look at the first part of our text: “DO NOT BE ANXIOUS ABOUT ANYTHING . . .”  God instructs us not to be anxious about anything.  God wants us to know that he cares for us and will take care of us.  Also, if we are anxious, we are not trusting God for our needs as He has clearly stated that He will meet all our needs if we only ask.

As a parent, wouldn’t you feel bad if your child continually worried whether you would provide them food and shelter despite you telling them that you will?  Of course you would.  God is no different.  He is our Heavenly Father and has promised to provide us all we need if only we ask.  Do not worry.
                   
Now lets look at the next part of our text: “ . . . BY PRAYER AND PETITION, . . . , PRESENT YOUR REQUESTS TO GOD.”  Ask!  Talk to God.  Prayer is just talking to God.  It’s that easy.  Just ask.

As a parent, if you knew your kids needed something and they came and asked you for it, would you turn them down?  No, of course not.  God is the same way as a loving Heavenly Father.  Just ask.

Lets look now at the last part of our text: “. . . BY PRAYER AND PETITION, WITH THANKSGIVING, PRESENT YOUR REQUESTS TO GOD.”  If you really believe God will provide that which you asked, you would be fine with thanking Him in advance.  Thanking Him before you receive whatever it is you requested demonstrates trust in Him.  And we know according to Hebrews 11:6 that trust, or stated differently, faith, pleases God.

As a parent, does it not please your heart when your children get excited and thankful when you have promised them something or promised to do something for them?  Sure you do.  Their excitement and thankfulness proves that they trust you.  God is no different.  Be thankful.

Will you receive the peace of God today for every situation and circumstance in your life?  It’s easy.  Commit yourself to implement these principles and you will see a difference.  You are blessed our friends!