Peace of Mind, What is it? Is it possible? How can I obtain it?
Peace is a primary principle and a prime virtue, it's inner tranquility and serenity of soul, so much more than freedom from conflict or cessation of war or hostilities. The "peace of God that passes all understanding" is standing and enduring in joy. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee."
"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see." Henry David Thoreau
Most of us have this idea that our peace of mind is dependent upon some person, position, circumstance or event. We are looking for some special person, some particular thing or some significant event to happen, that will relieve us of all the pressures of this life and finally bring us joy and the peace we've so long been searching for.
"The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever." Psalm 32:17
We say; If only I could marry this person, or be accepted by that group of people, get this loftier position at work, or make a lot more money, then I would find peace of mind. If only I could win the lottery, or my political party would get into office, if only this particular thing or that would happen I would be happy and finally find peace of mind. True peace of mind is not dependent on circumstances, it comes form the inside. Worries, fears, desires, restlessness, nervousness drive peace of mind away.
"If half a century of living has taught me anything at all, it has taught me that nothing can bring you peace but yourself." Dale Carnegie
The truth of the matter is that this peace of mind we seek is elusive, it's something we must decide for daily, it's something that can change in an instant, and ultimately it's a trust issue.
We all have different thoughts and ideas of what it will take to find that all elusive "peace of mind." But there is only one true way, one sure avenue to find that complete peace that mankind is searching for, that way is Jesus.
"The Lord blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11
"Restlessness and impatience change nothing except our peace and joy. Peace does not dwell in outward things, but in the heart prepared to wait trustfully and quietly on Him who has all things safely in His hands." Elisabeth Elliot
Our peace of mind is not determined by outside influences, but rather from within. It starts in our own hearts not by the circumstances we find ourselves in. In order to have peace, we are required to do our part. The scriptures remind us that we need to be mindful of our own hearts as God's blessings always flow when we walk in obedience. Living in peace is often an active choice of our will rather than a passive waiting for peace to fall in our circumstance.
"Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." Psalm 34:14
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3
We must choose to trust God with the position and circumstance we find ourselves in, knowing He is looking to do the best on our behalf. It's a decision we need to make daily, sometimes multiple times in a day. We have to chose to be at peace with others, we have to learn to be content in the situation we find ourselves in today. I don't mean we have to be satisfied with every area of our life, but, we must recognize that this is where we are today. Be content for today and do what you can to improve your situation, the right way with the right attitude, listening for God's voice.
"I will listen to what God the Lord will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints--but let them not return to folly." Psalm 85:8
"Relying on God has to start all over everyday, as if nothing has yet been done." C.S. Lewis
Do not allow fear, anger, confusion or desire to sit on the throne of your heart, but make a conscious choice to place the Prince of Peace on the throne of your heart to rule and reign forever.
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way, The Lord be with you all." 2 Thessalonians 3:16
"There are many things which are essential to arriving at true peace of mind, and one most important is faith which cannot be acquired without prayer" John Wooden
God Bless and Press On
Larry
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