I find myself fighting against anxiety on a daily basis these days. It’s as if there is a full blown war going on against the peace in my soul. At first I thought it was just the pressures of motherhood but it’s moved on to attack my marriage, relationships and the atmosphere in our home. From the outside you’d never know this battle was raging because it’s hidden deep and covered by what truly is a life full of abundant blessings. I suppose that’s when the enemy knows to attack…when we come so close to contentment and ongoing gratitude, trying to shield our eyes and minds from the war on our serenity.
Everything is overwhelming. Bombarded with news that breaks my heart, options too many to count on everything from parenting methods to health recommendations to theology, it’s just.too.much. There’s so much noise and too much movement. Even in the midst of a season based on the One who is himself peace, we abandon peace for the sake of memories and goodwill and family fun.
For me the vicious cycle has to stop. It’s robbing my family from enjoying the most important gifts we’ve been given. But it’s not enough to simplify what’s going on around us. Peace begins within.
If I want to experience peace in my surroundings, I must find it first within myself. Peace comes from that still place in the depth of our soul that has fully realized God’s presence. It starts with the ongoing invitation of Jesus into the place he desires most to dwell. . .and if I believe he’s been there all along then I suppose the invitation isn’t actually to come, it’s more to speak with the intent that I will stop and listen. . .and dwell with him.
Stillness that invites him to speak words of peace and rest. . .
If we want to experience peace on this Earth, it must begin within us and then overflow into our homes, relationships, careers, political conversations, spiritual encounters and Facebook feeds. I am done engaging in conversations; audible, digital, written or those that play over and over again in my mind that rob me of the promised peace of Jesus. I can never participate in his peace and minister it to others if I am unwilling to do the work of peace in my life and in the life of my family.
The real battle is in doing the work of peace so that we {and those around us} enjoy the pleasure of peace. . .
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. John 10:10 ESV
He came in peace that we might have peace. Peace that surpasses understanding. Peace that gives life abundant. As I experience more and more life I am gaining a deep belief that abundance has nothing to do with money or possessions or success. The abundant life he promised is one of peace. It’s a life that knows everything we could possibly need comes from him. The peace-filled life is sown in the hearts of those who make peace.
A Scripture Study on Peace
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
All through the Word we are promised peace. But we are encouraged to do the work of peace and allow it to take over our lives as we become united with Christ. He is our peace. He is our greatest gift. I feel the great challenge right now to do the work needed to experience peace in the deepest places of my soul. And I trust that as I tap into his promised peace, I will see it flow through me to those in my life, sphere and community. Perhaps if we all take these steps we’ll begin to see a blanket of peace cover a multitude of needs in the world around us.
Earlier this month I wrote about joy…these two fruit of a life connected to the Spirit really do go hand in hand…especially at Christmas time.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace
as you trust in him. Romans 15:13
Do you need peace right now? What steps can you take in your life toward the work of peace this season?
No matter what noise and activity is going on around us, may we give and receive the gift of peace this Christmas.
*All scriptures used in from the NIV unless otherwise noted.
The work of peace–yes, that’s really good. I have had to work at tightening up what information I feed myself…I have “unfollowed” many, many people on Facebook recently to quiet some of the noise, and that has truly helped. Seems like it takes a lot more effort to center on Jesus these days, but whenever I do it, the rest of the stuff falls into place. I’m with you on the pursuit of peace!!
Yes! Sometimes I feel guilty for closing the door on some of the negativity but we have to do what is needed to be at peace. It’s so worth the effort to make him the center. So much of it is mind over matter right? Thanks friend. Praying for your peace this season. Love to you and the family!
Dear friend! I had a similar revelation yesterday. I have not been doing the work of peace and I have let my heart become hard in some places and those two things are absolutely killing and destroying my joy and my peace. This morning I make some extra room to be still and to be quiet and it was good. I’m determining (again) to make space in my life to be still and to listen and to be loved so that I can bring the overflow of joy and peace to my world instead of the frazzled, harried, bitter, anxious things I’ve been bringing. Thank you for these words!!! You are always such an encouragement to me. I pray for you often!!
Thank you friend. You too. It’s an ongoing work, isn’t it? Praying you have an incredible sense of peace and joy this season. Miss you!