Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 26:72 (Spring 2022)
Article: Editorial
Author: Ron J. Bigalke, Jr.

Editorial

Ron J. Bigalke

Worry is one of the greatest problems to overcome in life. Worry affects the circulation, the glands, the heart, the entire nervous system, and even profoundly affects a person’s health. For this reason, Jesus could instruct, “‘So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Worry affects a person’s judgment, lessens the ability to make decisions, and makes one ineffective in life. To be given to worry certainly indicates lack of confidence in the God who promised to cause “all things to work together for good to those who love [Him], to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom 8:28).

Philippians 4:6 declares, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Contentment resides in the power of God, as believers adjust to circumstances. Paul said he knew how to adjust his life when he had little and when he had much. Employing military language (“God . . . will guard”), Scripture reminds believers that God will have his peace take possession of their hearts and minds “in Christ Jesus” (4:7). Be anxious for nothing is a command not an option. Worry is intrusion into a realm that belongs only to the heavenly Father. Instead of relating to God as a child, worry usurps the Father of the household.

Be prayerful for everything means there is nothing in life for which the Sovereign Lord does not care. Everything is the proper subject of prayer. When the believer is anxious for nothing, prayerful for everything, and thankful for anything, it is then God that promises his peace “which surpasses all comprehension.” God’s peace is the calm tranquility of the supremely joyful Sovereign Lord; it is the eternal disposition of the absolutely contented Almighty. God’s peace is beyond anyone’s ability to explain and understand; therefore, it must be experienced.

God’s peace guards the heart and mind. “Guards” is military language for something God’s peace accomplishes; it is a peace that guards the heart and mind. The principle is simple to follow: absence of worry + continual prayer + thankfulness = the peace of God.

The current issue of the Journal of Dispensational Theology addresses a variety of biblical topics contributing to the discipline of “taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). In this world of confusion and turmoil, the peace of God is essential. As you, the reader, think on these things may the peace of God be with you in life and ministry.