Philippians 4:5 in everything, with thanksgiving

Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

The truth that GOD cares for us and we consequently can live carefree does not mean that we had better leave behind our wishes and prayers. Paul even says that we would make all our requests known to God. There is no wish that we should not report to Him!

These requests are summarized here in “prayer and petition”. The word for “prayer” (Gr. pros-eu-che) contains the elements ’to-well-have’ which indicates right orientation towards the Creator. The word for ‘petition’ (Gr. de-eesis) is derived from ’to bind’ and speaks of need and urgency (’to bind on the heart’).

The key to Paul’s recommendation lies in the words “ with thanksgiving ”. Whatever request we make to God and however great the need, our requests would always be accompanied “with thanksgiving.” Not as a separate part where we pray for one and give thanks for the other. No, in everything in which we pray and beg, we would also thank GOD. Because since He takes care of us, we know in advance that He gives us the very best! When we ask for silver, God gives gold!

Delen: