Ponder: What does living a life filled with God's peace look like?
Scripture: 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
Tom's Thoughts:
I am not one who lives a consistent peace filled life, especially when people are driving slow in the fast lane. I have trouble experiencing stillness on the inside with upsetting situations occurring on the outside. I do have unwavering faith that Jesus died for me. Paul in Romans 5:1 tells us by faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, we have peace with God. Through my faith, Jesus has gifted me peace and the acceptance of not always being at peace in times of stress.
There are times when I truly feel His presence. It might be in song at church or on the radio. When I am reading the Bible, I feel His peace. I find peace in prayer. When I am serving, I have peace. Slowing down and spending time outdoors helps me find God’s peace. Most of us live a life where we are always in a rush. Hurry is not very compatible with peace for me. Slowing down helps me experience the inner stillness. I have to work hard at this and often fail. Jesus riding shotgun in my truck has helped me to tolerate (with a smile) the person going 60 in the fast lane and won’t move over.
John 14:27 I give you peace, the kind of peace only I can give. It isn't like the peace this world can give. So don't be worried or afraid.
Karen's Thoughts:
For me, experiencing God's peace is deeply personal. It's about connecting with Him so I can remain calm, secure, and at ease no matter what comes my way. This is much easier said than done as anxiety, worry, stress, and fear creep in. But I've learned that as soon as I redirect my focus, take it off of my circumstances(this temporary world with its temporary things), and turn to prayer, scripture, and time with Jesus, the gift of peace returns.
During my time in the ICU, God gave me a powerful visual that I've been using for the last 17 years. It's a simple yet profound image that helps me find peace in the midst of chaos.
At that time, I was so scared to close my eyes because I thought I wouldn’t wake up. But as I prayed and cried, God came near, just as He promises in His Word (The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18) He didn’t tell me everything would be okay, but He did give His peace and said, “Just rest in me, I’ve got you.”
Here is the simple visual: Picture yourself being held in God’s hands like you are resting in a hammock. Allow yourself to fully rest in Him. Surrender to Him and just be held. Release your worries, fears, and burdens to Him, and let His peace, which transcends all understanding, fill you up.
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. -2 Thessalonians 3:16
