Text- Isaiah 26:3 – “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusts in thee.”
As humans, we generally have a clearer head and tend to make better decisions when we are at peace. How then is it that the times we need that “clear-head” the most is actually when we lose our peace?
People say that desperate times call for desperate measures. That may be true to some extent, because during adversities or trials, actions that might otherwise seem extreme under normal circumstances are deemed appropriate. However, many times we allow the desperation, and sometimes despair, that comes with trials to get in the way of our peace or even rob us of it completely.
We have discussed in previous days that if we aim for perfect peace in this world, we must be at peace with God, and be at peace with ourselves. Today, we will examine yet another important leg upon which perfect peace rests.
3. HOLD YOUR PEACE IN THE STORMS
In life, you will face trials, temptations, persecutions and the likes. But never allow these things to get in the way of your peace; never allow them to steal your peace away!
Before we talk about holding your peace in the storms, let me quickly mention that there are certain storms that are totally unwarranted. Declutter your life of such. Get rid of them completely.
Start by identifying the things that mess with your peace and add unnecessary stress to your life; those are your peace-stealers. Are you bearing a burden that’s not yours? Are you getting involved in things that are totally not your business? Are you allowing some other people to dump their garbage on you?
If these things are taking their toll on your peace, you need to evaluate your life, and make necessary adjustments.
But then, there are legitimate storms and challenges that you will face in the course of your daily life. Before those storms come, make up your mind never to allow them mess with your peace – A stressful trip with heavy traffic, a grumpy spouse, a grouchy boss, an overbearing parent, a stubborn child… let none of these steal your peace away.
Rejoice evermore
In everything, give thanks
Quit worrying, and take practical steps
Hold your peace, and have faith in God
I want you to make a decision today that you are going to hold your peace and live at rest, no matter what comes your way. Whatever it is that you are looking for – good health, financial breakthrough, promotion at your job, marital bliss, vindication, a sense of fulfilment, or anything whatsoever – just be still and HOLD YOUR PEACE!
I want you to know that God has you inscribed on the palms of His hands, and you don’t have to go through life alone, trying to figure things out all by yourself.
Jesus said in John 14:27, “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.”
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me perfect peace. I rejoice in the peace that you have given me, and I chose to always be still and hold my peace in the storms. Let peace, like a river, flow continually in my soul.