Lesson 122: Being Anxious For Nothing

Kentucky Chaplain David Chaltas

Have you ever been worried and stressed to the point that you could not think clearly? Have you ever let the storm clouds of today darken the sky of your tomorrow? Has your attitude interfered with your latitude? Well, you are not alone. All of us have been there at one time or another. But I know a secret. It is the secret of the universe. Within the confines of this secret lies total peace and prosperity.

The accounts of the death of General Polk by his son offer us a glimpse of the secret. In his journal he states that his father was out with the other generals surveying the land when an artillery shell from ‘those people’ exploded beyond their position. The other generals scurried to safer ground but the Bishop General, with his usual demeanor and smile, simply stood there facing the artillery, as calmly as if on a leisurely stroll in a garden. The second shell burst nearby but he did not retire, not lose his serene features. He simply stood there in the face of death, as the third round hit its mark. He greeted death as he lived life, with total peace. He possessed the secret. It is said that Stonewall felt as safe on the battlefield as in his bed. He knew the secret. JEB embraced the secret as he sang on his deathbed, Rock of Ages. General Lee followed the secret and always stated, ‘It is in God’s hands.”

Do you want to know the secret? Well it is found through out the Bible but the verse that, to me, exemplifies the secret is in Philippians 4:6-9. “Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the god of peace will be with you.” And in Philippians 4:13 the secret is further revealed. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Finally the revelation is offered in Philippians 4 verse 19, “And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

The secret can be obtained simply by following a three-step plan. ASK, BELIEVE and RECEIVE. By following God’s simply plan of salvation, you are more than conquerors, death has no sting, and joy cometh in the morning. Is not the love of God the most wondrous of wonders? He is always there. He is always watching. He has known us before we were even within our mother’ womb. He is the secret that we seek. And our beloved book, God’s love letter to his children, says that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life. Ask for forgiveness, believe in Him and receive the gift. This I know; we are what we think and if we ask and believe it to come true, we WILL receive it and we will achieve it. All your needs will be supplied. This day my needs have been met and I am content in my belief, for I know I will receive a gift that I am so unworthy of. Such is the majesty of our Messiah. With Sacred Principles to Maintain, I Remain your Humbled Servant, The Old General