Trusting in God’s Peace

By Joanna Selva Kumar

In my Bible study, our leader asked us an interesting question: When you feel anxious, which verses do you turn to? Among all the passages in the Scripture that talk about anxiety, Philippians 4:6-7 is my favorite. 

Amid the pressures and uncertainties that college life often brings, it’s natural to feel the weight of anxiety and stress. However, the Bible offers wisdom, comfort and guidance for those facing such challenges. Philippians 4:6-7 states, “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.” 

For context, Paul wrote Philippians from the prison. Despite his circumstances, he encourages the believers in Philippi to rely on the power of prayer in seeking God’s intervention and guidance to overcome anxiety. We are to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, relying on His peace that surpasses all understanding to guard our hearts and minds. 

As college students, we are to take comfort in the knowledge that God cares for us and will provide the peace that surpasses all understanding. We should trust in His power and love, knowing that He will hear our prayers and answer them according to His will. By letting go of worries and anxieties, we rely on God’s promises for peace and comfort. You might face academic challenges (like midterms), personal struggles, financial struggles, relationships, family or the future, but embrace the promises of God, and live in the present moment with faith, acknowledging God’s sovereignty over all situations. 

Remember to pray without ceasing, present your requests with thanksgiving, and rest in the assurance that God cares for you. Let your heart and mind be guarded by His peace, knowing that He will always provide for your needs.