Anxiety in the Bible Part 1 & 2--Philippians 4:6-9 Overview and Reactive Strategy

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We continue our study on anxiety in one of the most well known passages of Scripture on the subject, Philippians 4:6-9 where we read "Be anxious for nothing" or "Be careful for nothing." We review two hermeneutic principles, define key words, and exegete (to pull out of) the overall passage as well as focusing heavily on verse 6. Here are two hermeneutic principles: Investigate the Original Languages: The Bible was written in Hebrew, Aramaic (Old Testament) and Greek (New Testament). While we have excellent translations in English, it is important to reference the original text to understand what words mean. This will be a vital principle over the next several weeks as we spend time in this passage. Slow Down: The tendency is to just read passages and get past them or try to see them in the “big picture.” While the big picture is important, it is also important to slow down, looking more closely for hidden treasures as well as clearer instruction. Here are some key words and their definitions: Anxious/Be Careful: This comes from the Greek word merimnao and its base word merimna which means, “To be anxious about, be careful, take thought” and “Through the idea of distraction, solicitude, care.” Everything: This comes from the Greek word pas which means, “All, any, every, the whole, all manner of, all means, always, anyone, daily, every way, as many as, thoroughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.” Prayer: This comes from the Greek word proseuche which means, “Prayer (worship), by implication an oratory, pray earnestly.” Supplication: This comes from the Greek word deesis which means, “A petition, prayer, request.” Thanksgiving: This comes from the Greek word eucharistia which means, “Gratitude, actively grateful language (to God as an act of worship), thankfulness, giving of thanks.” Requests: This comes from the Greek word aitema which means, “A thing asked, petition, request, required.”