Elevate: A Conversation About Violence and PeaceSample

Have you ever tried to follow a recipe? The great thing about recipes is that if you follow the instructions step-by-step, the result is usually better than you could imagine! In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul gives them the “recipe” for peace. He says that if they fix their thoughts on some specific things, then the God of peace will be with them. He instructs them to think about whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Sounds nice, right? Who wouldn’t want to think about good things all day? But if we’re honest, we get easily distracted by the pressures and negativity that surround us. Our minds can be a battleground, so we must be deliberate in choosing thoughts that align with the good that God wants for us.

How can you be intentional with your thoughts today and experience God’s peace? Try setting a reminder to think of something good, making your lock screen a favorite photo, writing down three things you’re thankful for, or finding the silver lining in every situation you experience today.