The glowing hues of blue, orange, and yellow in the flickering flames melted into the stunning sunset scenery out my window. “Thank you, God, for YOUR perfect peace,” I whispered, gazing at the 2nd Advent candle.
How do I keep this perfect peace? Joy AND jolts are juxtaposed in my journey-how do I obtain perfect peace? How do I find stillness in the storm? Calm in the chaos? Tranquil in the midst of trouble?
What’s my NATURE? Peace washes over me like a cleansing flood while I’m IN nature. Later, “caught by surprise” cancer circumstances, my soggy spirit and exhausted body felt drowned. “God, I return to YOUR unwavering nature and rest in YOU.”
Whenever I face challenges, I pause to pray. I’m reminded of Advent Week #1-to wait well and stay prepared. NO PANIC! I will surrender my soul to God. To have true peace, I have to surrender!
How can I NOT have a different peace perspective after what I’ve experienced? “GOD, THANK YOU for providing circumstances to practice the peace that is ALREADY IN ME because of YOU.”
It’s not denial–it’s about dependence on God. I don’t pretend everything is fine when the storm is rocking the boat, the torrential downpours are stinging my soul—
“Peace! Be Still!” Jesus declared this when the disciples panicked during the storm. This command isn’t just for weather. MY HEART HEARS HIM.
When facing sticky situations or unhealthy conflict, stress can lead to sickness, sadness, or suffering. When you’re peace “peters out” what do YOU do? PRAY? Walk away? Take deep breaths? Listen to music? Read? Walk in nature? Binge favorite shows? Snuggle with a loved one or pet? If your season starts to snowball, but your spirit melts, please know you’re not alone.
“Holy Spirit, I need you to speak for and through me. Help me adjust my attitude, cloth myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Remind me of God’s truths about love, unity, and peace.”
“Bear with one another and forgive whatever grievances you have against one another.” (Colossians 3:13) I’ll let God’s love lead so HIS peace resides in my heart.
HOPE.
PEACE.
Soon, I’ll light the joy candle. Last, love. Is there anything greater than these?
Friends, do you know how loved you are?
Have hope, keep the faith, and I pray that peace will permeate your soul and surroundings! 💚🙏🏻
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