There is a music video by Bobby McFerrin, with a catchy little tune “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” I’m not sure how the typeset will work between my submission and its print in this paper, but I attempted to cross out “Happy” and in its place put “Be at Peace”. Please don’t get me wrong. I love the song. I love the whistling. I love the harmonics – especially the whistling in harmony. And I love being happy. Bobby McFerrin sings of several examples that may be going on in your life i.e. your rent is late, landlord may litigate, but don’t worry, be happy.
Happiness is a fleeting emotion that is usually dependent upon the circumstances being favorable. But the scriptures speak of something deeper than the emotion of happiness and is not so much dependent upon circumstances as it is dependent on God who cares for you. Philippians 4:6-7 starts the same as Bobby’s song, “Don’t worry”, and it goes on to say, “about anything”. Another translation says, “Be anxious for nothing.” Worry and anxiety are true thieves in life that can easily steal away both emotional and physical health.
But the scriptures don’t just say, “Don’t worry”, it gives us the prescription by which we can exchange our anxiety and worry for the peace of God. See the directive in this scriptural context. Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Although happiness is dependent upon favorable circumstances this peace comes simply because you have prayed, telling God what you need, and thanked God and in that, exchange your worry for His peace. And the reason that I know this peace is not depending on the circumstances having changed, or suddenly become favorable, is because it says that this peace exceeds anything we can understand. In other words, nothing has changed before this peace comes to you, otherwise it would be understandable. No, this peace comes from God, not from changing circumstances. And this peace of God will guard your heart and your mind. No more will worry, and anxiety steal your emotional and physical well-being.
Jesus said in John 14:27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So, don’t be troubled or afraid.” So, Don’t Worry, be… (not just happy) be at peace with the peace of God that goes beyond explanation or understanding.
