Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it’s the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Prov 19:21

Some time ago, a talented and fine young friend of mine was headed to Texas to major in marketing. As we discussed his upcoming career path, he defined marketing in a way I had never considered. My basic idea of marketing included someone selling or buying a product or idea of some kind. His definition sparked with far more depth and hope. Marketing to him was to truly help someone purchase a quality product through “strategic influence.” As I thought about what he said, one of my favorite passages of Scripture came to mind. Please read Philippians 4:6-14 for yourself. We find a three point formula to the most amazing product that we all can use daily and… forever.

First, Paul says we are to be ANXIOUS for NOTHING. He’s not talking about being comatose to life, just trusting and truly believing that God will never leave us nor forsake us like He promised. Secondly, to be PRAYERFUL in EVERYTHING. The intimate relationship that comes from time with God is reflected in the first Commandment and so many supporting scriptures. One that vies for our attention is Hebrews 11:6 where God promises to reward those who earnestly seek Him and believe that He is who He says He is. Thirdly, to be GRATEFUL for ANYTHING of, by, for, or from Him.

The simple fact we have breath is none of our doing. Life, water to drink, abilities, beauty, witty ideas, and friends are all manifested examples of God’s grace. “This is the day that the Lord has made. Let’s rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).  The product that Paul promotes is the peace that only God can impart, because it’s an attribute of His character. While Paul and Silas were in the Roman jail (a place disgustingly despicable and dangerous even in our imagination), they sang praises at midnight and influenced the guards around them. Either one is totally goofy in behaving like that or they were containers for something that transcended understanding. Paul gives us his notion of “positive thinking,” which is nothing like “you’re OK and I’m OK.” He describes being content when he abounded (things going his way) and being content when he was abased (trapped like an animal in the Roman jail).

In review, the help that is really help (that which comes God’s way) is the most profound strategic influence. God made us in His image to be overcomers and live a trusting life in Him. As The Ultimate Chairman of the Board and Chief Strategist, His marketing plan in His Word is as good as it gets for each of us. No sales pitches, open wallets, credit cards, internet glitz, weird gyrations, uncontrolled laughter or billboards are necessary for us to access God’s nature this week. Let’s believe and open our hearts to the power of God to produce His supernatural joyful peace in us as we live, move, and have our being.

I’m not sure about anyone else, but for me… looking forward to a joyfully peaceful and strategically influenced week makes me want to jump and sing, “Hallelujah,” too!

Dearest Lord, in the power of Your inimitable Holy Spirit, please lead us in the wholesome tension of Your growth and wisdom — ANXIOUS for NOTHING, PRAYERFUL in EVERYTHING, and GRATEFUL for ANYTHING of, by, for, or from You.

John 14:27; Romans 8:28; Isaiah 43:2; Hebrews 13:5; 1 Cor 10:31