Was peace an illusion? F
or years, my haunted heart yearned for its calming balm. Christ promised His followers, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27) But the tears scattered across my people and the anguish twisting my stomach evidenced a complete lack of peace… How I longed to claim that peace as my own!
I’ve come to understand that, in many ways, peace is something Christ offers but we have to choose it. His perfect peace is available, but in order to claim it we must lay down our troubles and fears. It’s as if a beautifully wrapped gift has been placed at our feet–waiting to be unwrapped. When we clasp today’s worries tightly in our arms–refusing to give them up–it’s impossible to pick up that which we have longed to take hold of.
So…today I’m going to drop the heavy burden at His feet. Instead, I’m going to trust Him to deal with those worries. I’m claiming His peace this morning. Will you, too, dear friend?
Scripture for reflection You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3)
Action step Create a list of all of today’s concerns, worries, and burdens. Give each one in prayer to the Lord and throw the list away. Meditate on Isaiah 26:3 throughout the day when your peace begins to dwindle.
