UNPACK This...Staying Calm, Cool, and CollectedSample

Peace In The Present

It's great to have a superstar on your favorite NBA team, but the presence of elite talent also comes with immense pressure.

Many fanbases find it difficult to live in the moment and enjoy a superstar’s presence because they're worried their beloved player might bolt for another team if things don’t go well.

Such was the case for many Cleveland fans when LeBron James was wearing a Cavaliers jersey.

Unfortunately, the enthusiasm of many Cleveland fans during James’ final playoff push was tempered as they wondered whether LeBron would head elsewhere following the season.

Instead of being able to enjoy having one of the greatest players in history on their roster, many fans chose to live in constant anxiety about what would happen next.

In our own lives, we also wrestle between having peace in the moment or being anxious about the uncertainty of our future. We easily get caught up in what comes next, and suppress our current excitement because we’re afraid something won’t last.

But if we look back on other seasons of life, we realize too much time was spent worrying. Our joy was stolen because we were more concerned about what might happen instead of calmly embracing the moment we were in.

Whether our present season of life is difficult or exciting, there is purpose and enjoyment for today. As followers of Jesus, there is peace available to replace any worry about what is next.

Jesus said in John 14:27, ”'Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]'”

Today, let’s be grateful for the part of the journey we’re experiencing right now and find peace as we know that God holds our future.

“…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).

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray I wouldn’t be anxious about the future. Help me to calmly embrace today – intentionally enjoying Your many blessings and finding peace in knowing You’re using everything for good. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.