Paul could not be clearer when he wrote, “do not be anxious about anything” (Philippians 4:6).
His language is a command, “Stop worrying!”
This is not a parent to a child worried that the white cloud he sees may be a tornado. This is not a camp counselor to a camper afraid of the dark.
The worries of the Philippians and of Paul are not phantom anxieties or toothless dreams. He is in prison. The church is being persecuted. People are not getting along. The threat is real. So his “stop worrying” has teeth and the command to “not be anxious about anything” leaves no exceptions.
He does not deny reality; he simply believes that God is greater than whatever circumstances we are in.
Philippians 4:6-7 is the favorite verse of Bill Van Gorp. He is our story of faith in this week’s service. He’ll share how God’s grace has been with he and Joyce through the years and decades of their life together. These beloved verses are likely the favorites of many in the church.
6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of
God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in
Christ Jesus.
Surprisingly to me, I have not preached on this text with the exception of two funerals. I’ve preached through Philippians twice in team ministry, but both times another pastor preached this passage. I’m looking forward to my shot at this inspiring promise.
As you prepare to come to worship on Sunday, why not take some time to reflect on the things that bring anxiety into your life. Paul does not ask us to ignore anxiety-producing situations; he invites to give them to God. We’ll do this Sunday.
In the Grip of Grace,
Jon Opgenorth
PS - Check out the Links at the right to the church website where you'll find all the bulletin information, prayer list, and other news and notes.
Something New
We're trying some different ways to make "Sunday's Coming!" a more attractive communication peace. To see any pictures or graphics in this e-mail, just righ-click on them and select "Download Pictures."
Praise in the Park!Bring your lawn chair to the park on Sunday evening as our praise teams lead us an outdoor evening of praise and worship. 6:00 p.m. in Windmill Park!
Haiti Week 1 is upon us!
Our high school students and adult sponsors will be traveling to Haiti next week (another group of adults will be going in July). Please remember them in prayer.
Amazing Video
Here is a video that Trinity member and Northwestern professor, Jamie Durham, made of Michelle Christy's (and Team Michelle's) participation in The Race for the Cure. Enjoy! If you cannot see the video, click on the link below to Jamie's video post.
Race For the Cure from Jamey Durham on Vimeo.
