Philippians 4:6 is a compound sentence (two complete sentences that could stand alone but are joined by a coordinating conjunction). Grammatically, the two clauses are equivalent. But are they in content?

Because the “do not be anxious” part comes first, we often focus on that. We interpret it as “we shouldn’t be anxious” and try to will ourselves to peace through prayer or positive self-talk. But, as most have observed in practice, no one has ever calmed down by being told to calm down. Anxiety is not diffused by trying to follow more commands. 

However, when studying the diagram of this passage, I saw it from a different angle. Buried in the prepositional phrases and conjunctions are the answers to the foundational questions we should always ask when reading and observing God’s word: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?

The subject of each clause is the understood (you). We know from context that Paul is speaking to believers, so the answer to the Who? question is all believers. 

But it’s the second clause, not the first, that answers the What? question. What are believers to do? Present your requests. That’s the primary command here, not Do not be anxious. 

The When?, Where?, and How? questions are answered directly by a series of prepositional phrases, each one bringing clarity to what it means to present your requests. When? In every situation. Where? To God. How? By prayer and petition, with thanksgiving.

The key takeaway lies in the reason for the first clause. Do not be anxious about anything is not another independent clause meant to tell us what we are to do. Instead, it answers the Why? question. Why? are you to present your requests? So that you won’t be anxious. Do not be anxious is a reward, not a rule. 

Paul continues to clarify this subtle, yet pivotal, cause and effect relationship in the next verse: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

So next time you read Philippians 4:6, don’t trip over the first imperative clause. God isn’t telling you that you need to calm down, take a chill pill, and get a grip before you can begin praying. Instead He’s lovingly and gently reminding you to bring all your burdens to Him first and allow Him to replace your anxiety with peace.