I had been asking God what would be best to write about this week, as we approach Christmas, and I thought about peace.
Christ is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) In Thessalonians 3:16, Scripture says, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” (NIV) In John 14:27, Jesus is speaking and He says, “Peace I leave with you: My peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled. Do not be afraid.” (NIV) And here is the Scripture that I have been given over and over again, since I first began seeking the Lord. Provers 3:5,6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, submit to Him and He will make your ways straight.” (NIV) There are over 100 Scriptures about God’s peace. Search them out for yourself and be encouraged. “In the song, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, are the words, “Peace on earth and mercy mild. God and sinners reconciled. Glory to the newborn King.”
When I first received the peace of God, I was in the midst of a very hard place in my life. Before this, I believed that I could control people and situations in my life. This resulted in a great deal of turmoil, stress, and what is now called “drama”.
I was new at learning about the Lord and was still leaning on my own understanding about life. Then I experienced a very dark situation. I was afraid, out of control, and fearful for my children. I didn’t know what to do. I decided to call someone who was anchored in the Lord and was a great prayer warrior. She listened to my dilemma and began to pray for me over the phone. As she prayed, I began to feel a peace that I had never felt before. It calmed my fears and strengthened me to go forward for another day.
Once I experienced that peace, that goes beyond understanding, I vowed to never return to the person I was. I vowed to trust in the Lord in all things. I embraced that peace and never wanted to lose it. I first received God’s peace over 30 years ago. By God’s grace, He has kept me in His peace, no matter what the circumstance, and I rejoice in that.
My latest challenge was in Sept. 2020, when my husband died. I was in a very dark place of despair. My best friend and part of me had gone to be with the Lord, and I was here, without him. But no matter how deep the pit, and how great the despair and loneliness, God’s peace was with me. He has brought me out of the pit, and continues to nurture me through His peace and the people He has brought into my life to encourage me and lift me up.
So, my word to you is this: Choose to receive God’s peace and rest in it. When you do, no matter what the trial or dark place you experience, God’s peace will help you get through it.
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