Peace In

In my naive days, I used to think the best way for me to lose weight was to substitute two meals a day for a piece of fruit or a small salad. It was satisfying for a moment; however, hunger would sneak back in an hour or so later, and I‘d overeat when I had my third meal. That’s how some of us are when it comes to looking for peace. We think we can substitute the fullness of God’s peace for something else. We overindulge in something else and find ourselves still restless.

In the valleys of life, we sometimes pursue peace and joy by turning to alcohol, drugs, sex, food, entertainment, and success -- the list is endless. These things offer temporary & imperfect peace, but God gives perfect peace. The Bible says in Isaiah 26 that we can trust in the Lord forever because He is like a great rock- strong, stable, trustworthy, and lasting (v. 4 Voice). He’s able to sustain us with perfect peace in every situation (v. 3).

Whatever situation has us feeling like we’re going through a valley, we can surrender it to God. God wants to exchange our heavyweights for His peace and promises. The Bible says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT). God is a caring and loving Father. He loves us more than we could ever comprehend. Whatever our situation: God is aware. God cares. God is there.

When we release all our anxieties, worries, and concerns, we will experience His peace. To experience God’s peace is to experience joy! Let us put our trust in Him, release our worries, and receive His peace. We can stir up joy by giving all our "worries and cares” to our compassionate heavenly Father.

Ponder

What worries, and cares do you need to give to God today? Think about what has caused you stress, anxiety, or fear recently. Write it out, then write ‘I give it to you God.’ Breathe in God’s peace; breathe out your stress.

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for peace and for being my Peace. Remind me daily that instead of worrying about what will happen, I can focus on Your promises and remember that You care about me and everyone that I love. I cast my cares on You and leave them with You. As I put my problems in Your hands, fill my heart with your peace. Help me always trust and rest in you, regardless of what my feelings try to convince me to think. I joyfully receive your peace.