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Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matthew 6:27

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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. Philippians 4:6-7

The start of the New Year, be it the Chinese (Lunar) or the Gregorian calendar, is a propitious time to set a sense of peace in our minds. These two well-known sets of verses, I think, set the right frame of reference: first, they remind us God is in control so there is no need for unproductive worry on our part. Second, if we become anxious or worried we can rest assured the Lord will provide a solution.

It’s important to note that the answer to worry is through our relationship with Him. Any prayers, petitions, or appeals should be offered after giving thanks for all that He has already given us. This kind of prayer is clearly not self-centred, but rather a God-centred exchange, which delivers peace that is refreshing to our body, mind, and soul.

My prayer for you for the coming year is that you will grow in your relationship with the Lord and this relationship will offer you His peace even when you become anxious.

Let us allow God’s shalom reign in the Year of the Rooster by:

• Praising God for being the God of peace, hope and glory forever; and,
• Asking Him to help you be filled with His Spirit daily.