Perfect Peace
Dear Friend,
Peace is often taken for granted when chaos is often going on all around us. Webster’s Dictionary defines peace as “a state of quiet; especially: freedom from public disturbance or war; freedom from upsetting thoughts or feelings; and harmony in personal relations.” The definition of “Peace” would lead one to believe that everything in their life has to be quiet, harmonious, and almost perfect in order to be peaceful. Realistically, every area of our lives doesn’t always “look” like peace. We often face tough situations such as job loss, sickness and death of loved ones, financial difficulty, relationship issues, problems with children, mental illness, and the list goes on. Even in the midst of those situations, we can experience the peace a relationship with God gives us.
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal rock. Isaiah 26:3-4 (NLT)
When we keep our minds fixed on Him, and not our circumstances, we will experience perfect peace. Many of the battles and wars we face in life are magnified by our own thinking. We keep ourselves in bondage and torment when we constantly think about, talk about, and rehearse the negative situations we are facing. Refocus your thoughts. Refuse to dwell on the problem. Focus on what He is doing for you and through you. Focus on His goodness, His protection, and His faithfulness towards us.
The Lord gives his people strength. The Lord blesses with peace. Psalm 29:11 (NLT)
God’s peace looks different from the world’s peace. Everything does not have to be perfect for us to live in His tranquility. In the midst of chaos, we can live in peace. Guard your heart and mind. Pay attention to what you are consuming with your eyes and ears. We are strengthened by the peace God blesses us with, however, we weaken ourselves when we consume the wrong things and entertain the wrong conversations.
And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15 (NLT)
Allow your life to be lived through the lens of thankfulness. Live in peace. Negativity is often contagious. Likewise friend, allow the peace in your life to transfer to those around you.
Pursuing Peace,
Tracye M.
