Peace in Chaos

Peace is mentioned about 400 times in various versions of the bible. As humans our biggest vice seems to be worry. We want things to go a certain way, always being told to plan ahead. When I was in middle school I remember being asked what college I wanted to attend or what career I was pursuing. At the time I barely knew basic math much less what I would be doing in six years. We’re pushed by our parents, schools, jobs, and peers to be on top of everything and it’s unrealistic. We’re not built to carry all of that pressure and that's not how God intended it to be. 

The time we’re in now can seem scary and unpredictable. While that's true we only feel that way because we’re not in control. We’re able to make decisions for ourselves so when we’re told to stay inside in fear of catching a sickness we know nothing about, we are reasonably upset. Here's some good news though: God has already got everything planned out. If you're someone who stresses about the future, your family, income, or your health, know that you can cast those things on the lord and he will take care of them. Everytime I think about verse 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you”, I feel a wash of relief over me. In a time like this, it can be hard to focus on the lord and let him handle things. He’s bigger than us and he can get things done in the beautiful way he always does.

I know for some this is easier said than done. Trusting is a learned trait and it can be easily damaged by experiences or toxic people, but God is not of the world and he urges us to do the same. “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John 2:15. If we focus on the negatives and get so distracted by all the bad and worry selfishly about ourselves we will never feel peace. How horrible that would be. Take this time to think about trusting the Lord and how you can spread his peace to others. What is meant for you will find its way I promise. 

Finding peace in the midst of God's work is difficult when we can’t see how he’s moving. In those times it’s important to focus on prayer. Whenever you find yourself worrying, take a moment to pray about it, even a short prayer the moment the thought comes to mind. It allows you to pass your worries to God and hopefully relieve some stress that you have. It is so important to keep trusting in God, keep diving into scripture and keep reminding ourselves that he is faithful. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” Romans 12:12

Best wishes,

Emily