Daily we are bombarded with bad news on the global, national, and local scales: economic crises, disasters, terrorism, corruption, crime, poverty. We also face personal stressors: family problems, health situations, ­unpaid bills. The list goes on and on.

We seem to be poorly prepared for bad news. We are disturbed by potential negative outcomes. We turn anxious to the point of becoming physically ill. It's no wonder anxiety is considered one of the most common nervous disorders of our time.

In Philippians, however, we read Paul's blunt instruction not to be anxious about anything. How is that possible? Amazingly, the apostle gives this God-inspired advice while he is imprisoned!

For Paul, inner peace doesn't come as a result of some relaxation technique, denial, or the power of positive thinking. The apostle fully trusts the power of God to protect him and give him peace. Uncertainty fuels anxiety, but if you are certain about your standing with God, you don't have to be anxious. He is your strongest shield against difficult or unpleasant situations you might be facing.

Go ahead and thank God. And share with him, in heartfelt prayer, all your problems and anxieties. He hears and provides strength.