Finding Inner Peace in an Anxious World

(This is a condensed version of the sermon preached by Michael Larsen on September 7, 2025.)

We live in an age where anxiety seems to be everywhere. Social media, biased news, and constant digital comparisons fuel fear and insecurity. Many young people, instead of enjoying life and friendships, are trapped in cycles of comparison, loneliness, and depression. Anxiety has become one of the greatest mental health challenges of our time. While medicine, therapy, and even limiting screen time can help, the deeper question remains: how do we find lasting inner peace?
The Bible points us to an answer. The Apostle Paul, writing from prison after beatings, shipwrecks, and persecution, speaks with remarkable confidence about peace. In Philippians 4:6–7, he writes:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Paul knew suffering more than most of us ever will, yet he wrote about peace that surpasses understanding—a peace rooted not in circumstances, but in God.

Peace as a Gift
The first truth we see is that peace is a gift from God. Romans 5:1 reminds us: “Since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.”
On the cross, Jesus reconciled humanity with God, undoing the separation caused by sin. While the world promises peace only if circumstances are favorable, God offers a peace that can exist even in prison cells, in loss, or in suffering. This peace is not earned—it is given through faith in Jesus.

Peace Requires Participation
But peace is not automatic; it requires participation. Isaiah 26:3 says: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” God promises peace, but we must set our minds on Him.
Paul shows us how. First, through prayer. When we pray, we cast our cares on God (1 Peter 5:7). Prayer isn’t just a ritual—it’s connecting our heart with His, allowing His presence to shrink our worries. Paul encourages us to pray boldly, specifically, and with thanksgiving. Gratitude reminds us of God’s past faithfulness and helps us trust Him for the future.
Second, peace grows through shaping our thoughts. In Philippians 4:8 Paul tells us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Left unchecked, our minds loop through lies, fears, and distortions. But when we align our thoughts with God’s truth, we break the cycle of anxiety and move toward His peace.

Building a Foundation of Peace
God’s peace is described in the Bible as a “fruit of the Spirit.” It grows in us as we trust Him, pray with boldness, and renew our minds daily in His Word. In a world of anxiety, God offers something deeper and stronger—a peace that guards our hearts and minds, no matter the circumstances.
If you are longing for peace, remember: it is both a gift from God and a process we walk with Him. Build your life on this firm foundation, and you will discover a peace that truly transcends understanding.