PEACE

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It has been a little while since I have written anything-mostly because I was unsure of what to write. I have had several ideas and thoughts, but have been having a hard time narrowing it down to one topic. This past month and a half has been a bit of a struggle for me….with hormone regulation, lack of sleep, fatigue, and the busyness of “life.”

And then today, in the quietness of being home alone, working on filing and shredding a forgotten pile of random paperwork, my thoughts turned to a recurring theme that has been woven throughout several conversations that I have had over the past month or so…..peace.

So many struggles. And with that, I’ve had many different opportunities to pray with friends. The main request? Peace. Peace in difficult situations. Peace in a decision. Peace of mind. Peace in a relationship. Peace in the midst of health issues. Peace.

Peace has many definitions….”in a state of tranquility,” “serene,” “harmonious relations,” “freedom from disturbance,” “to be silent,” and “inner contentment.” Everyone has a different way of describing peace, but I think, to me at least, the clearest view, and definition, that we can get on peace is from the Bible.

Jesus spoke these words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27. He has given us His peace and it is nothing like what the world gives.

A couple of chapters later in the book of John we find another statement straight from Jesus: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. He never promised that everything would be perfect when we trust in Him. In fact, He lets us know that we WILL have trouble in this world. But because He has overcome the world, we may have PEACE. Isn’t that a great promise??

Paul talked about God’s peace: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7. The activation of God’s peace-His peace that passes ALL understanding-is by presenting our requests to God WITH thanksgiving.

Friends, I don’t know where you’re at in your walk with God, or what life situations that you may be dealing with, but if you are in need of some peace in your life right now, can I encourage you to meditate on these verses? And dig into the Bible yourself, too. There are so many other verses where peace is talked about.

Do not be afraid. Lean into God. When you feel anxious or are having a hard time finding that peace and calm, “Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7. God loves you. I pray that you can find peace in Him today!