Finding Peace

/ Gail Johnson

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3

Good morning! For this month’s theme, I chose the word peace. Who doesn’t appreciate a little peace? I know I do! But what about those times when peace seems to allude us even when we’re doing all the right things? You know, those times when we’re showing symptoms of Martha syndrome.

For example, as vessels, we are in need of filling. If we’re filled to the brim with everything around us, we have no room for the things of God. Empty, we have nothing to offer those we meet along the way. That is why we must take the time to rest, rejuvenate, and connect with the Prince of Peace.  Such was a time for me this past week!

As I pondered on this month’s posts, colorful visitors kept dropping by to say hello. Less than ten feet outside my office window, their bright colors kept catching my eyes and diverting my attention from the monitor. It was as if the Creator was inviting me to come away for a moment and enjoy His gifts.

My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. Song of Songs 2:10-13

Mama Flycatcher CHW-1

O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely. Song of Songs 2:14

At times, finding peace is as easy as changing our focus.

Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Matthew 10:31

Perfect Tree Canopy CHW-1

Sometimes, it’s as close as lying beneath the shade of an oak contemplating our blessings.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights… James 1:17

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Peace can be as close as our backyard!

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Psalm 19:1

 Sunset 3-1

Such wondrous beauty we often forfeit when we fail to take the time to appreciate God’s gifts. Creation is a testimony of His greatness. Take a look around and drink your fill. I promise you won’t leave thirsty!

What are some things you do, other than reading your Bible and praying, to connect with the Prince of Peace? Let me know in the comments!

 

19 thoughts on “Finding Peace”

  2. Loved this! I also use walks, sitting on the porch, music, and just spending time remembering what God has already done. Taking a walk down memory lane does wonders!

    • “Taking a walk down memory lane does wonders!” I agree, Becky. I like to read past journal entries. My hope is renewed when I find earlier prayers that have been answered. Thanks for sharing!

  3. One of the ways my sister and traveling buddy connect with God is by camping. We love to RV. Spending time in nature just seems to naturally rejuvenate us. By the way, we are going to start an inspirations playlist on our YouTube site. Many of the people who just stumble across us have no relationship with God. We’re hoping that we can change that.

    Thanks for your blog. I’m always excited when I see that you’ve posted something new.

    • I went RVing with a friend and her family when I was a teen. Those are still some of my favorite memories. The inspirations playlist sounds awesome! I subscribed to your channel. 🙂 Thank you for the lovely comment and for sharing with me. Stay safe out there!

  4. Gail, what a beautiful post. I also enjoy visits by tiny guests. One of the ways I connect with the Prince of Peace is through listening to worship music. It’s hard to dwell on anything else when godly lyrics fill one’s heart and mind. It’s a perfect rainy day retreat when it’s too cold to enjoy nature (which is my favorite way to meet with Him other than during quiet times).
    Blessings ~ Wendy ❤

    • Wendy, I love worship music! I remember when Integrity Hosanna Music was the thing. I loved their lyric because they were straight from scripture. I still hear that music in my head even now…20 years later! The one I heard this morning begins with “You are my hiding place…” Thank you for sharing! ❤

  5. What a beautiful message! Thank you for the photos, too. I love to open my back door and look outside and see and hear His wonderful blessings. Birds singing, sun shining or even rain falling, nature all around. God gives us the most wonderful blessings to enjoy each day and I am thankful for His blessings. 🙂

    • I’m with you, Melissa! I love the sound of nature. The red Tanager in the pics sings praises in the top of a pine tree. His song eminds me I also have a lot to sing about! Thanks for sharing! ❤

  7. Take long walks, and like you, soak in His Creation. Love this post, Gail, and all your beautiful pictures! Wishing you much peace this week, my sweet friend. 💜

  8. Besides reading the Bible and praying, I find other ways to connect with the Prince of Peace are through my children. I enjoy cuddle time and watching them laugh and play together. I also enjoy exercising (especially when it can be done outdoors :-)) because there’s this sense of connection with the divine maker of everything.

    • I miss having babies in the house. My children are 19 and 24. I still spend time with them. And I still get hugs and kisses! I thank God for that everyday! Thanks for sharing, Stacey. ❤

  9. Such a priceless attribute. One most of us seriously need to seek after. Thanks for sharing. I enjoy these posts.

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