Promises
“The Promise of Peace”
Philippians 4:4-9
 
God’s promises are more than just comforting words; they’re truths we can build our lives on.
God doesn’t just speak promises; He keeps them!
 
True peace is not the absence of problems, but the presence of God.
 
Philippians 4:4-9
 
What robs us of peace?  “do not be anxious about anything…” Philippians 4:6 
 
Anxiety is the thief of peace. 
 
Common causes of anxiety:
Finances/Job
Relationships
Health issues
Busyness
 
“Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength.” - Charles Spurgeon
 
Anxious - merimnao: “that which divides and distracts the mind. Dwelling on fearful or anxious thoughts.”
 
Anxiety is not a sin, but a signal to bring our issues to God.  
 
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts… and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24

The Path to Peace:
1. Replace your worries with worship. (Philippians 4:4-5)
Worship doesn’t ignore the struggle —it changes the atmosphere within it.
 
2. Take all your cares to God in prayer. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Prayer is the antidote to anxiety.                                                                                                                        Anxiety is rooted in self, while prayer is rooted in God.                                                                                           Anxiety is concerned over circumstances you can’t control, but prayer is giving God control over circumstances.                                                                                                                                                                         Anxiety is an expression of fear, while prayer is an expression of faith.

When God’s peace guards your mind, you can experience calm in the chaos of life.

3. What fills your mind will eventually form your life – focus on truth, not lies.  (Philippians. 4:8)
"Our lives are always moving in the direction of our strongest thoughts. What we think shapes who we are.” - Craig Groeschel
 
“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.” Romans 8:5-6

Peace is a byproduct of fixing your mind on Christ.
“You keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You.” Isaiah 26:3

4. Practice makes perfect peace. (Philippians 4:9)
 “Turn away from evil and do good, search for peace, and work to maintain it.” Psalm 34:14
 
Peace is obtained from Christ but maintained by us.
 
What practice of peace can you begin or return to in your life?
Peace is found in seeking God daily.
Peace is found in community.
Peace is found in healthy activities.
Peace is found by aligning your priorities with God.

You will never possess true peace until you fully trust Jesus, the Prince of Peace.