Peace is defined as freedom from disturbance; tranquility. When we think of peace we often think of things that are calm and in control. Today I want to talk about how we can exist in a more peaceful state, and how we can share that peace with others.
So many times throughout scripture God calls us to be the people through whom peace is distributed. He tells us to be the peacemakers and to seek and keep peace. Philippians 4:6-7 talks about how God wants us to give him our anxiety and tell him about our worries so that He can replace them with this inner peace that goes beyond all human understanding.
I believe in todays world we want to have control in order to have peace. If things aren't going our way or are too different than what we are used to (i.e. everyones life right now) then we feel this inner barrier that hinders us from reaching peace. When we accept that God is in control even if our kids are screaming and never listen, or when our house is a mess and can never stay clean, or when we're out of a job and don't know how we're going to pay rent... then we can begin to receive the gift of peace that God has had for us all along.
Here are some ways we can slow down and step into peace:
Memorize a phrase that helps you stay calm when you start to get worked up.
(i.e. "I'm not perfect- things don't have to be perfect" "Jesus is in control- not me")
Remember sometimes there is beauty in disorder! Uniqueness is GOOD.
Schedule time for you to do something that makes you happy.
Listen to this Daily Christian Meditation Podcast (CLICK HERE it's short)
Get exercise! It helps you control your emotions.
Here are some ways we can share our peace with the world around us:
Send cards and letters to friends, remind them that everything going to be okay, they are not alone, and you got their back if they need anything!
Don't feed into negative talk. This pandemic is so depressing. Be the one who turns the conversation around with positive content.
Be real and relatable! -So people know they're not alone.
Be respectful of peoples fears and listen to their hearts.
Overall peace is something we all need all the time, pandemic or not. Practicing this calmness now will better equip you for future hardships. When we are secure and free from the weight of disturbances then people can see the hope in us and will want to take part in what we have. May the God of Peace be with you as you navigate this way of life. Praying for you guys always, and know I'm always here to chat and listen.
-Until next time, Sophia Marie