The Serenity PrayerSýnishorn

Serenity

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time, accepting hardship as the pathway to peace, taking this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it, trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will; so that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with You forever in the next. Amen.”

“God, grant me the serenity …”

Serenity is the peace that remains within us even amid life’s difficulties. When we face challenges, what is our response? Fear? Anxiety? Discouragement?

At the Last Supper, Jesus was about to face His crucifixion. Knowing Judas’ betrayal, the abandonment of His disciples, and the suffering ahead, Jesus remained serene. Instead of revolting or reacting in anger, He shared bread with Judas, washed the feet of all His disciples, and treated them with mercy.

Jesus also gave thanks in the midst of pain. He took the bread and gave thanks, even knowing the suffering that awaited Him. This act of gratitude teaches us that, even in moments of anguish, we can find reasons to praise and thank God.

Additionally, before going to Gethsemane, Jesus led His disciples in praise. He knew what He was about to face, yet He found serenity to worship. They sang a hymn. We can also remember Paul and Silas, who, though unjustly imprisoned and beaten, sang hymns to God. The peace Jesus offers strengthens us in times of tribulation.

Peace in the world is temporary and based on external circumstances. The peace of Christ, however, is different. It sustains us amid the storms and allows us to move forward confidently, knowing God is in control. Jesus reminded us that in this world, we would have troubles, but He also assured us that He has overcome the world.

True serenity comes from the presence of Christ within us. It’s not the absence of problems but the trust that God is with us in the midst of them. As Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Trust in the peace of Jesus and experience serenity in your life.

Prayer: Lord, help me live according to Your will, trusting that you guide each step. May I walk by faith, knowing that You sustain and lead me, even when I cannot clearly see the future. In Jesus’ name, Amen.