I’ve been thinking more about peace lately. What it means, how to get it, and most importantly, how to keep it. Living in a world that constantly threatens or at least runs counter to it, it’s critical to have a strategy and mechanism by which we protect it.
When I asked the question to myself “what brings me peace” transparently, the first thing I thought of was clarity. I like being clear and understanding beyond a shadow of a doubt where I am and where I’m going. The reality is, we are in control of very little in this world so there will always be things that aren’t clear or we don’t understand. Therefore, if I’m relying on understanding and clarity for my peace, it will always be fleeting and I’ll be in a constant state of anxiety. I want a sustainable, unshakable peace. Is that too much to ask for?
The answer to that question is actually no and here’s why.
If you have accepted God as your father, you serve THE God of peace. That means He is the ultimate source of it.
I’ve found more than anything else, being in and recognizing God’s presence brings me peace. And the beautiful thing about His presence is that you can enter it anytime. Whether through prayer, listening to worship music, reading scripture, or walking in nature, I can immediately access peace. Now that’s sustainable!
Some may say, “easier said than done” or “it’s not as simple as that.” Oh, but it is.
There are many verses in the Bible about peace, but I think this treasure in Philippians chapter four, gets to the heart of our access to it.
He’s given us the roadmap to peace. Immerse yourself in His word. Seek out His wisdom. Be obedient. Follow His example by showing compassion, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and love. That’s where you will find peace. Will everything be right in the world? No, but you’ll be surrounded by the One who offers peace amid the chaos and confusion.
If your peace is disturbed not by the outside, but by what’s within, go to Him in prayer. That same chapter of Philippians also offers instructions to go to Him and tell Him what we need.
If sometimes, you’re like me and you don’t even know what you need, ask God to reveal it to you. Trust He already knows but wants us to come to Him to get it.
Lastly, I believe our peace is connected to our gratitude. In Phil 4:6, it says to tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. When we are grateful, it puts our worries into perspective. Gratitude helps us to trust God, because we acknowledge Him for what He’s already done. And if He’s provided before – whether it’s wisdom, protection, healing, comfort, or a tangible fulfillment of a need – He can do it again.
Seek Him. Follow Him. Obey Him. Trust Him. Thank Him. That is where the peace resides.
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Golden Life Musings 