Most of what you worry about never happens
Isaiah 26:3 – You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
At this time of year when the celebration of the birth of the Prince of Peace is here, are you finding it difficult to say that you have peace? Psychologists and theologians agree that until you are at peace with yourself, you cannot find peace with others. A quick glance at the more than 500,000 books about peace you can order from Amazon suggests it is a most sought-after concept.
The world is troubled today. A virus pandemic, economic recession, political conflicts, and a whole lot of confusion make the news daily. It is clear that the world offers no peace—and it never has! Jesus has offered you His peace (John 14:27). So, how do you get that level of peace in your life? First of all, pray. Pray about everything. That’s the word Paul uses in Philippians 4:6-7. Then, absorb beauty…whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, worthy of praise—beautiful things. Enjoy God’s handiwork, fine food, lovely music, a great book. Expunge from your mind the things that are worrisome. Let go of regrets and conquer your fear. Look for peace where it exists. “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1). Finally, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:9).
Pray With Us
Holy God in Heaven, Forgive me for the times when I let worry overwhelm me. I know that peace can be found with You, and yet I still try to find it elsewhere. Thank You for the reminders in Your Word. Thank You for the many beautiful things I can focus on…above all, my beautiful Savior. Still my heart and set my mind on You, I pray, Amen.
- Pray for God to reveal anew that He is the only source of true peace.
- Pray that He would help you release worrisome thoughts.
- Pray that the Holy Spirit would show you in scriptures that are about peace and are able to encourage and strengthen you.
- Ask for God to fill you with thankfulness.
- Ask for a renewal of the fruit of the Spirit in your life (Galatians 5:22-23).
- If you are not at peace, ask God to show you what it is He wants you to learn.
- Pray for God to guide you in letting go of grudges and regrets.
