New Testament
Philippians 4:6
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Do not worry about anything; instead, in every situation, present your requests to God through prayer and supplication, always with thanksgiving.
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Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
What Philippians 4:6 means
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.
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
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Plain Meaning
Paul tells his readers not to be anxious about anything. In the KJV, "careful" means full of worry, not simply cautious. Instead of worrying, they should bring every need to God — through prayer, specific requests, and a thankful attitude. Nothing is too small or too large to bring to Him.
Read It in Context
The verse sits between two connected commands. Verse 5 says "The Lord is at hand" — God is near. Verse 7 follows with a promise: God's peace will guard their hearts and minds. The command not to worry is sandwiched between the reason (God is near) and the result (peace follows).
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Philippians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 61
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Philippi
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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