Peace. That elusive calm in mind, heart, and soul.
What's the pathway to peace during this hectic Christmas season?
Peace of Mind
"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you." Isaiah 26:3
That verse holds the secret. Trust God. Fix our thoughts on Him.
Slow down, trust God's plan, path, and provision, and fix our thoughts on God. Then we will enjoy elusive peace. He calms the chaos in mind, heart, and home.
Praise and gratitude give peace of mind. Let our prayers be those of worship and praise, with thanksgiving for our many blessings. If unsure how to praise, read or sing Psalms of David's praise. Look around at the many blessings and thank God for each one.
"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful." Colossians 3:15
Peace of Heart
"I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27
Home is where the heart is. To experience peace of heart, we must cultivate peace at home.
When I was a child, my dad would often get exasperated with us four kids - and my mom - yammering around the dinner table, laughing uproariously in the living room, or brawling in the bedroom.
My father was generally a quiet guy - until he got mad. Then he would holler, "All I want is a little peace and quiet!"
I wonder if our heavenly Father gets exasperated with us in the same way.
We yammer when we should yield.
We laugh when we should listen.
We quarrel when we should quiet.
And we cause trouble when we should call a truce.
Let's resolve to stop the chaos, the yelling, and the discord. Let's appreciate the blessings of our families. Let's quiet our hearts and our homes.
"And this righteousness will bring peace. Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever." Isaiah 32:17
Peace of Soul
"But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm." Proverbs 1:33
Our souls yearn for God's peace. We yearn for His gentle voice, His love, and His grace.
Listen for His voice and His peace by sitting still with the Christmas lights twinkling. Turn off technology - tv, games, music, internet, phone. Just be still and listen. Find a quiet time and space with God even if you have to get up early or stay up late.
If family wanders in, don't be annoyed or frustrated. God may be revealing His greatest blessing. Gently pull them close and touch a finger to moving lips. Whisper, "Listen to God." Share the quiet moment. Remain quiet and still. Listen.
This Christmas - and into the New Year - let's enjoy the quiet. Not only during those quiet moments, but throughout the day every chance we get.
"Be still and know that I am God!" Psalm 46:10
"When peace like a river, attends my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll,
Whatever my lot, you have taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul."
by Horatio Spafford & Philip Bliss, 1873
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" Galatians 5:22-23
How do you find peace during the busy Christmas season?
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Time to Enjoy Your Blessings makes a great Christmas gift for anyone who yearns for more peace in life.
For fiction lovers, The Crystal Falls Series is the perfect gift to take your loved one through Christmas vacation and into a Happy New Year.
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