New Testament
Philippians 4:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Philippians 4:6, Paul encourages believers not to be anxious or overly concerned about their lives.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 61
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Philippi
Do not worry about anything; instead, in every situation, present your requests to God through prayer and supplication, always with thanksgiving.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Plain Meaning
Paul tells the Philippians to stop being anxious about anything. Instead of worrying, they should bring every concern to God through prayer and supplication — asking Him specifically for what they need — and do so with a thankful attitude. The command covers everything: no situation is too small or too large to bring to God, and no situation is an excuse to skip thanksgiving.
Read It in Context
Paul is writing from prison. Verse 5 has just said 'the Lord is at hand,' meaning God is near — which sets up why prayer is the right response to anxiety. Verse 7 follows with the result: God's peace will guard their hearts and minds.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Philippians 4:6 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Philippians 4:6, Paul encourages believers not to be anxious or overly concerned about their lives. Instead of letting worries consume them, he advises them to bring their concerns to God through prayer and supplication. This means that in every situation, whether big or small, they should communicate their needs and desires to God. Importantly, this should be done with a spirit of gratitude, recognizing what God has already done and trusting Him for the future. The verse emphasizes the importance of faith and reliance on God rather than succumbing to anxiety. By doing so, believers can find peace, knowing that God hears their prayers and cares for them.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Philippians 4:6 to your life
When faced with worries or stress, take a moment to pray and share your concerns with God. Remember to express gratitude for what you have and trust that God is in control. This practice can help reduce anxiety and bring peace to your heart.
Curated for this public verse page. Philippians Summary · Philippians 4:6 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Philippians 4:6 mean?
Philippians 4:6 means that believers should not let anxiety take over their lives. Instead, they are encouraged to bring their worries to God through prayer and to do so with a thankful heart.
What is the meaning of prayer in Philippians 4:6?
In Philippians 4:6, prayer refers to the act of communicating with God about one's concerns and needs. It emphasizes the importance of seeking God's help and guidance in every situation.
How can I apply Philippians 4:6 in my life?
To apply Philippians 4:6, take time to pray about your worries and express gratitude for your blessings. This practice can help you feel more at peace and less anxious.
What does 'supplication' mean in Philippians 4:6?
In Philippians 4:6, 'supplication' refers to earnest requests or petitions made to God. It highlights the importance of being specific about one's needs when praying.
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