“…the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds.” – Philippians 4:7
Anxiety builds walls inside us — walls of “what if,” walls of worst-case scenarios, walls of imagined disasters. But Advent announces a peace that builds a different kind of wall — a wall of protection around your heart and mind.
God’s peace is not fragile.
It is fortified.
It guards.
It defends.
It holds you steady when your thoughts spiral.
This peace is not the absence of anxiety — it is the presence of Christ. It is the calm that comes from knowing the One who holds the universe also holds you. It is the assurance that even when circumstances shake, His promises stand firm.
Advent reminds us that peace is not something we manufacture; it is Someone who draws near.
When Christ enters the chaos, He doesn’t just quiet the storm around us — He quiets the storm within us.
Reflection Question: Where do you feel most anxious today? How might you invite Christ’s peace to guard that place in your heart and mind?
Take one anxious thought and turn it into a prayer. Instead of rehearsing “what if,” whisper, “Lord, You are with me.” Repeat it until His presence feels more real than your fear.
“Peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ.”
Prayer: Prince of Peace, guard my mind today. Quiet my thoughts with Your nearness. When fear rises, remind me that You are closer still. Let Your peace stand watch over my heart and mind. Amen.
When God Came Near 