What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9, ESV The COVID-19 pandemic was a traumatic experience for the entire world. Many individuals, couples, and families had already been experiencing a level of distress while trying to hold it together physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Within this context, the apostle Paul emphatically urges: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). 

The COVID-19 pandemic was a traumatic experience for the entire world. Many individuals, couples, and families had already been experiencing a level of distress while trying to hold it together physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Within this context, the apostle Paul emphatically urges: “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). Paul is writing from a prison cell and clearly understands that in every life trying times will interrupt the normal flow of things. Yet, he knew there was no situation beyond God’s help.

In a world filled with overwhelming anxiety, depression, and emotional unrest, Paul offers the believers an answer. The peace of God. The same offer of peace is available to us today. This is no ordinary peace. Paul says: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). There is a place for scientific and psychological interventions. However, God’s peace goes beyond human intervention. It is the kind of peace that sustains during times of hardship.

If we practice a healthy thought life “whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely...meditate on these things...and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:8, 9); He will walk with you, talk with you, and comfort you during challenging times. Your circumstances may not change, although He is able. But God will help transform your approach to trials.

One thing we know for sure, the founders of modern psychology did not invent this kind of peace. This is not positive psychology or new-age thinking. This intervention is straight from the Word of God. This kind of peace resides in those who believe in what Paul shares in Philippians 4:4-9. 

For when we pray and practice the mental disciplines of rejoicing, praying, meditating, gratitude, and thinking the right thoughts, we can stave off anxiety, depression, and other emotional anguish, which can help us foster good mental health. Maintaining good mental health is vital for everyone.

When fostered within a family, it can bring significant benefits: better communication, understanding, empathy, less conflict, higher self-esteem, and resilience among family members. Good mental health goes together with good physical health. When families prioritize good mental health, they tend to also prioritize good habits like adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a healthy diet. Parents or guardians in the home who care for their mental health are good examples for their children.

With God’s help, choose for your family. God created us in His own image (Genesis 1:27). This means that the variety of emotions and feelings we were given is also a part of His creation. This week you and your family are called to choose your own positive mental health. The body we were given is a big responsibility for each of us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Our minds are a key part of our lives. Choose to take steps to live to the fullest, even when times are difficult. Jesus will always be there with you.

--This article is from the Family Unity 2023 Week of Prayer Initiative from The General Conference with Willie and Elaine Oliver, Family Ministries Directors for the Seventh-day Adventist Church World, and Karen Holford, Family, Children’s, and Women’s Ministry Director for the Trans-European Division