Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 NLT
I love the practicality of Paul’s words of encouragement. Don’t worry instead, pray, tell and thank!
Is it really that easy? Maybe we should try and see if it works.
Pray about everything is simply allowing God space in your life. Staying constantly connected.
Tell– This is all about getting to the root of a request. Remove the whining, complaining, manipulation and simply tell God what do you need? Or, what you think you need.
Thank God for what He has already done. Gratitude is the enemy of worry!
I believe Pray, Tell, and Thank helps cultivate a stronger relationship with God which leads to peace (v7).
But wait!
If this simple idea works with our relationship with God, I wonder if it would work with other relationships? Consider your closest relationship may be a spouse, a close friend, or a family member.
What if we created space for others in our everyday, busy lives? What would it look like to strive for a more consistent connection?
We all have needs and request. Sometimes in relationships, we use negative tools like manipulation and criticism to try to get what we need. What would it look like to make a simple request?
I need __________. This seems like it would be easier. However, this would force me to really consider what I need and communicate it but, maybe that’s not a bad thing.
Gratitude is the key to strength in any relationship. Tell someone how grateful you are for them. Get back to the simple, strong words “thank you!” Thank you for loving me. I am grateful that you are in my life.
These ideas could cultivate a stronger relationship with God and each other.
Give it a try!