"Don't Worry,Be Happy"--I have to admit, I hated that song; however, the message in the title is a very biblical word.  Today's verses are part of a series of exhortations Paul is writing, interestingly enough, from prison.  "As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ" (1:13).  Paul definitely has reason to worry and complain, but in reading the whole of Chapter 1, one can discern that, although Paul is unsure about his immediate future, he knows when his time on earth is up, there is Christ, and there is no cause for or merit in complaints. "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Jesus Christ" (3:14). From this perspective he instructs the Philippians to:

1.  Rejoice! (vs. 4)
2.  Behave appropriately--gentle and patient with others (vs. 5)
3.  Don't worry (vs. 6a)
4.  Talk to God about everything (vs. 6b)
5.  Think about the good stuff (vs 8)

Sandwiched within those instructions is the assurance, "And the peace of God which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (vs. 7). 

This is really cool when we consider some of the favorite battlegrounds of the enemy are the hearts and minds of the children of God.  Paul has given us a strategy against our enemy.  I propose that even when the attack is an obviously physical one, that strategy will make a difference.  Scientific studies have revealed that an optimistic attitude can positively effect more than just psychological conditions, but also heart disease, digestive problems, and even cancer.

Paul writes, "Do everything without complaining, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--" (2:14-16a). We really do have a choice where our attitudes are concerned.  Our happiness may be dictated by our situations, but our joy comes from the Lord. We need to look beyond the situations. Paul has set the example; Jesus set the standard.  I choose to be like them!

Lord God, today I place my attitude in Your Hands.  I ask that You adjust what needs to be adjusted.  I ask that day by day You will guide my decisions so that I continue to conform more into Your image and likeness, so that I may be a useful vessel in Your Kingdom.  Please forgive me when I fall short, help me not to become discouraged, and help me not to attempt the impossible task of doing it alone, but to always cling to Your great big, nail-scarred Hand. Amen