Finding Peace

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!

 

Trust His Heart

Rainbow TreeThis weekend I was reminded of God’s faithfulness to His children as I watched my friend smiling and laughing with a friend he hadn’t seen since his surgery. It was a happy reunion as the two—like schoolboys—caught up on old news.

Both are walking testimonies. Both have had open heart surgery. The elder—in his eighties—has been in and out of the hospital this past year. Twice, we’ve feared for his life. Yet God decided his journey wasn’t over. The younger, not feeling well, was diagnosed with a 100% blockage of the widowmaker earlier this year. Needless to say, God was indeed the strength of his heart. He is doing well. Thank you for your prayers.

On the other hand, I’ve watched several family members grieve the loss of a loved one who unexpectedly slipped from this world. Yet, through their struggles, God is still faithful in the midst of their heartache.

Why does He choose to leave some, while others are taken? I don’t know. But, I do know one thing. He has my best interest at heart. He loves me and wants the very best for me. So, with each heartache comes a choice. Do I trust Him when I can’t see His purpose?

Easy? Sometimes. Other times, not so easy. At times, trusting Him has been the hardest thing to do. But through my heartaches, I’ve held on to His promises like a drowning man clinging to a life-preserver.

His ways are higher

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9

I am not alone

“for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5b

I will find comfort in Him

“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” John 14:18

I will see my loved one again

Jesus said unto her, “I am the resurrection, and the life:” John 11:25

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:” 1 Thessalonians 4:16

I have hope

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11

 

Yes, I have hope in Him. I may not always see His hands or know His thoughts. But I can always trust His heart.