Earlier in my faith walk I thought God’s peace and joy would appear instantly and automatically!
I know, it sounds crazy, but that is exactly what I was thinking back then. It gets worse. I was also convinced that my profound sadness would leave me like David Blain vaporizing a truck from his Las Vegas stage.
I was WRONG.
There’s more. Another “spiritual misread” on my part was thinking it was possible to manufacture God’s peace and joy through our own efforts.
WRONG, again.
Over time I have learned that tapping into God’s peace comes when we form an intimate and consistent relationship with Christ. It comes when we fully surrender to live an obedient, Christ-like life. It comes from having God’s Word in our head and heart, day-in and day-out.
Relying on any other power source is never enough. Using that approach prompts us to 1) use man-made guides for direction on how to act as a Christian; and 2) play a make-believe game of moral relativism to rationalize our failure to fully surrender.
NO! God’s peace comes when we stop trying to be the boss of our life and turn it over to him so he can guide us forward.
“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.” John 14:27
We need to consistently look to God as the source of our joy and peace. Help us to remember that our spiritual position does not change based on our emotions or feelings. Thank you for loving us and that we belong to your family. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Are you feeling God’s peace right now? No? A little? Overflowing? What one step could you take today that would move you closer to him and his peace?
