There’s No Place Like Home
One of my favorite places is home. Its strong walls house all of the creature comforts I love and it protects me from the outside elements. It’s my go-to place when things get messy and I’m desperate for the ‘every now and then’ alone time needed to rest in the presence of the Holy Spirit. I think of it as my sanctuary for when I need peace and quiet to escape the world’s sadness and negativity that breeds fear, anxiety, and doubt–if I let it.
It’s then and there that I reflect on all that encapsulates me. It’s during the silence that I ask God to bring respite to my mind, body and spirit because I know rest and recharging are essential if I’m going to live a healthy and joy-filled life.
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Isaiah 26:3
When Peace Eludes Us
The last few years have been difficult to put it mildly. Experiencing the deaths of loved ones and dealing with the finality those events presented, walking through illness with friends who are facing health issues and stepping up to support friends and family who are dealing with their own life-changing issues has me weary and exhausted. I don’t carry these burdens alone but I do carry them in my heart as I pray for them.
It’s during these times that peace sometimes eludes me. So when I’m struggling, I speak these words aloud, “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] This verse comforts me so much because of the enormous truth and promise God’s Word provides.
Like the Apostle Paul, who experienced numerous days and nights of solitude and trials, we come to realize that true peace comes when we rest in the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Peace in Contentment
What does peace in contentment look like?
It’s trusting God no matter the outcome. It’s saying Lord, “I trust You with my whole heart because I know You know what’s best for me.” And it’s depending on Him to help you make a way when the way looks impossible.
Things aren’t always easy or simple. Some days are troublesome and filled with pain and anguish. Other days are filled with burdens that take time away from ourselves and our families. Regardless of what’s getting in the way, spiritual warfare is an ongoing battle when we choose man’s way over God’s. Our strength and peace comes from Him alone.
God Gives Us True Peace
When I think about my favorite place, I realize it provides the shelter I need, but it’s God who grants me true and deliberate peace. Time alone gives me [gives any of us] the ability to think clearly, align our goals with what He wants for our lives, and to enjoy all that He has to offer. When our souls long for a break, it’s His peace that makes the difference.
Tweet ThisThe Bible tells us in Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.”
Only when we’re calm and restored can we truly live a life that reflects Christ’s love and grace. It’s our joint partnership with Him that allows us to grow in the fruit of the Spirit.
Make it a priority to live a life of peace–a life trusting God; a life centered on faithfulness; and a life that conveys we are human and far from perfect. A life that says we can enjoy peace when we are content and rest in the presence of the holy spirit
We may find the perfect place to take refuge in, but it’s Jesus who meets our every need and brings the calm to a storm. Paul reminds us in his final greetings to the Corinthians, “Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:11-13
As we pursue peace and walk by the Spirit, here are 10 verses to add to your Scripture collection.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I come to you asking for peace and calm in the midst of our world’s culture. Every day brings news of difficulties, tragedies, and more. Some we understand, others we don’t. But You are in control and we know there is good when we dwell in Your Presence. Thank you for providing moments of quiet and rest, and for holding our hands and leading us through the darkness when we can’t see. Thank You for Your love, grace and mercy. Amen.
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